Vanity mirror comprising light sources and methods of manufacture thereof

ABSTRACT

A mirror assembly can include a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In some embodiments, the mirror comprises one or more adjustable sections. In certain embodiments, the mirror includes a light column configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a periphery of a mirror section. In some embodiments, the light column can produce various color temperatures. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly comprises a capacitive touch sensor that allows control of one or more features of the light emitted from the light source. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured control on/off settings and other features of the emitted light.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/060,080, filed Mar. 3, 2016, which claims priority benefit under 35U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/129,205, filedMar. 6, 2015, entitled “VANITY MIRROR,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to reflective devices, such as mirrors.

Description of the Related Art

Vanity mirrors are mirrors that are typically used for reflecting animage of a user during personal grooming, primping, cosmetic care, orthe like. Vanity mirrors are available in different configurations, suchas free-standing mirrors, hand-held mirrors, mirrors connected to vanitytables, wall mirrors, car mirrors, and/or mirrors attached to orproduced by electronic screens or devices.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a mirror system comprises a head comprising a firstmirror assembly, at least a second mirror assembly disposed laterallyadjacent to the first mirror assembly and in mechanical communicationwith the first mirror assembly via a pivoting member that is configuredto allow movement of the second mirror assembly with respect to thefirst mirror assembly, such that a reflective face of the first mirrorassembly and a reflective face of the second mirror assembly areconfigured to form a plurality of angles α relative to each another. Insome embodiments, the mirror system can comprise at least one lightsource disposed on or in a lateral side of the first mirror assembly,the light source comprising a plurality of light emitting sources (e.g.,at least a first light emitting diode and a second light emitting diode)having different color temperatures and disposed to emit light in ageneral direction along a length of a first light path; and wherein thefirst light path is disposed so that the length of the first light pathis adjacent to at least a portion of a periphery of the second mirrorassembly; and a controller configured to adjust relative lightintensities of the first light emitting diode and the second lightemitting diode.

In some embodiments, one or more electronic features or settings orcharacteristics of the mirror system, such as light brightness or lighttemperature or battery level, can be viewed, selected, and/or adjustedremotely by a mobile electronic device, such as by way of a wirelesscommunication protocol and/or using a software module or app on themobile electronic device.

Some embodiments provide a mirror assembly or mirror system comprising ahead. In some embodiments, the head comprises a first mirror/firstmirror assembly. In some variants, the head further comprises a secondmirror/second mirror assembly, disposed adjacent to the first mirrorassembly. In certain implementations, the second mirror is disposedlaterally adjacent to the first mirror assembly. In some variants, thefirst and second mirror assemblies are in mechanical communication withthe first mirror via a hinge. In some variants, the hinge is configuredto allow movement of the second mirror assembly with respect to thefirst mirror assembly such that a reflective face of the first mirrorassembly and a reflective face of the second mirror assembly areconfigured to form a plurality of angles (e.g., α) relative to eachanother. In various embodiments, the angle α between the first andsecond mirror assemblies (or of reflective surfaces thereof) ranges fromabout 90° to about 180°.

Any of the embodiments described above, or described elsewhere herein,can include one or more of the following features.

Certain implementations of the mirror system further comprise a lightsource. In some embodiments, the light source is disposed on a lateralside of the first mirror assembly. In some variants, the light sourcecomprises a light emitting diode. In some embodiments, the light sourcecomprises a first light emitting diode and a second light emitting diodedisposed to emit light in a general direction along a length of a firstlight path. In some variants, the first light path is disposed so thatthe length of the first light path is adjacent to at least a portion ofa periphery of the second mirror assembly.

In some implementations, the mirror assembly/system comprises acontroller configured to adjust relative light intensities of the firstlight emitting diode and the second light emitting diode to selectivelysimulate a plurality of different lighting environments includingnatural sunlight and indoor light. In multiple variants, the first lightemitting diode emits light of a first color temperature and the secondlight emitting diode emits light of second, different color temperature.In certain embodiments, the first light emitting diode emits light of afirst color and second light emitting diode emits light of second,different color.

In certain embodiments, the controller allows a user to control one ormore of the color, brightness, or color temperature of light emittedfrom the light source. In some variants, the controller allows a user toproduce an emitted light from the light source having a colortemperature in a range from about 2700 K to about 6500K.

In certain variants, the controller comprises a capacitive touch sensorin electronic communication with the light source and configured totransmit information sent by a user to the light source. In someembodiments, the controller receives commands sent by a user. In certainvariants, the user can send information to the controller using one ormore of a computer, a mobile device, or a NEST® system. In someembodiments, the computer, the mobile device, or the NEST® system is inwireless communication with the controller. In certain variants, thecomputer is a handheld device (e.g., a smartphone or the like).

The some implementations, the mirror system/mirror assembly furthercomprises a sensor assembly comprising a transmitter. In someembodiments, the mirror system/mirror assembly further comprises asensor assembly comprising a receiver. In some variants, the sensor isconfigured to relay information to the controller.

In some implementations, the sensor assembly comprises one or more of ahousing, a gasket, and a cover. In some variants, the housing supportsthe transmitter and/or the receiver. In certain embodiments, the gasketprovides a seal between the cover and the housing. In some variants, thegasket prevents signal (e.g., electromagnetic radiation) from bleedingfrom the transmitter to the receiver.

In some implementations, the mirror assembly or mirror system furthercomprises a third mirror/third mirror assembly. In some embodiments, thethird mirror assembly is laterally adjacent to the first mirror assemblyor the second mirror assembly. In some variants, the third mirrorassembly is disposed on a side of the first mirror assembly opposite thesecond mirror assembly. In some embodiments, the third mirror assemblyis in communication with the first mirror assembly or the second mirrorassembly via a hinge. In some embodiments, the hinge is configured toallow movement of the third mirror assembly with respect to the firstmirror such that a reflective face of the first mirror and a reflectiveface of the third mirror are able to form angles α′ relative to oneanother.

In some variants, the mirror system comprises a second light source. Insome implementations, the second light source is disposed to a side ofthe first mirror assembly and is configured to emit light in a generaldirection along a second light path. In multiple variants, the secondlight path is disposed so that the length of the second light path isadjacent to at least a portion of a periphery of the third mirrorassembly.

In some implementations, a first light source is disposed between thefirst mirror assembly and the second mirror assembly and a second lightsource is disposed between the first mirror assembly and the thirdmirror assembly.

In some variants, where a hinge is provided, the hinge comprises a cam.In certain implementations, the hinge is configured reduce the distancebetween mirror assemblies during opening of the hinge.

In certain implementations, the mirror assembly further comprising alight scattering region disposed along the length of a light path. Incertain implementations, the light scattering region has a gradient oflight scattering elements. In some embodiments, the gradient has a lowerdensity of light scattering elements nearer one or more light emittingdiodes and a higher density of light scattering elements farther fromthe light emitting diodes. In some embodiments, the light scatteringelements are configured to encourage a portion of light contacting thelight scattering region to be emitted out of the light path and toward auser of the mirror assembly. In certain embodiments, this emissionfacilitates a substantially constant amount of light emitted along thelength of the light path.

In various embodiments, the mirror assembly or mirror system furthercomprises a shaft portion connected to the head portion. In someembodiments, the head portion and the shaft portion are connected by ajoint that allows movement of the head with respect to the shaft. Insome embodiments, the joint is a pivoting joint.

In some embodiments, the mirror system further comprises a base portion.In some implementations, the base portion is connected to the shaftportion at a distal side of the shaft with respect to the head portion.In certain variants, the base portion is configured to support themirror assemblies and to allow the mirror assembly to standsubstantially upright on a surface.

In some variants, the mirror system comprises an additional mirror. Insome embodiments, the additional mirror is configured to reversiblyadhere to one or more mirror assemblies to provide an additional view ofa user. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly has a storage slot,port, etc. that allows storage of the additional mirror out of sight ofthe user (when the additional mirror is not in use).

In certain embodiments, the mirror assembly comprises an alarm featurethat provides a sensory cue to a user. In some embodiments, the mirrorassembly comprises an LCD screen disposed behind a portion of areflective mirror surface. In some implementations, the LCD is visibleonly when activated. In multiple variants, the LCD screen providesvisual information a user.

Certain embodiments provide a method of manufacturing a mirror assembly.In some embodiments, the method comprises coupling a first mirrorsection to a second mirror section. In some embodiments, the firstmirror section and the second mirror section are connected using ahinge. In some variants, the method comprises disposing a light sourcecomprising a one or more light emitting diodes to a side of a mirrorsection. In some embodiments, the method comprises disposing acontroller within the mirror assembly, the controller configured toadjust one or more features of the mirror assembly (e.g., relative lightintensities of a first light emitting diode and a second light emittingdiode). The controller can be configured to communicate wirelessly witha mobile communication device in a manner that permits the mobilecommunication device to provide one or more instructions to thecontroller regarding actuation of the plurality of different lightingstates by the mirror assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the mirror systems and assemblies disclosed herein aredescribed below with reference to the drawings of certain embodiments.The illustrated embodiments are intended to demonstrate, but not tolimit, the present disclosure. The proportions and relative dimensionsand sizes of each component as shown in these drawings forms part of thesupporting disclosure of this specification, but should not be limitingon the scope of this specification, except to the extent that suchproportions, dimensions, or sizes are included in any individual claims.The drawings contain the following Figures:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a mirrorassembly.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate side views of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the mirrorassembly.

FIG. 9 illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view of anembodiment of the mirror assembly with the reflective surfaces removed.

FIG. 10 illustrates a partially exploded front perspective view of anembodiment of the mirror assembly with the reflective surfaces removed.

FIG. 11 illustrates a partially exploded perspective front view of anembodiment of the mirror assembly.

FIG. 12 illustrates a configuration of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the configuration of FIG. 12.

FIGS. 14A-C illustrate cross-sectional top views of the embodiment ofFIG. 12.

FIG. 15 illustrates a view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 that ispartially disassembled.

FIG. 16 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 illustrates an enlarged view the embodiment of FIG. 10.

FIG. 19 illustrates an enlarged, partially exploded view of theembodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 illustrates a view of a sensor assembly.

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the mirrorassembly with a reflective surface removed

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate bisected views of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 24A-D illustrate views of an embodiment of a mirror assembly withan additional mirror attached thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

Certain embodiments of a mirror assembly are disclosed in the context ofa portable, freestanding vanity mirror, as it has particular utility inthis context. However, the various aspects of the present disclosure canbe used in many other contexts as well, such as wall-mounted mirrors,mirrors mounted on articles of furniture, automobile vanity mirrors(e.g., mirrors located in sun-visors), and otherwise. None of thefeatures described herein are essential or indispensable. Various typesof vanity mirrors are provided in U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2013/0235610, published on Sep. 12, 2013, which is incorporatedherein by reference for all that it discloses. Any feature, structure,or step disclosed anywhere in this specification can be replaced with,or combined with any other feature, structure, or step disclosedelsewhere in this specification, including in U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2013/0235610. Any features, structure, or step disclosedherein can be omitted. While the illustrated examples include featuresdesignated by numbers used herein, these features need not be present inall embodiments. Further, for purposes of summarizing the disclosure,certain aspects, advantages, and features of the inventions have beendescribed herein. However, not all embodiments include or achieve any orall of those aspects, advantages, and features.

Many vanity mirrors distort the reflected image because of, for example,poor quality reflective surfaces, harsh light sources, and/or unevendistribution of light. Additionally, the light sources of conventionalvanity mirrors are typically energy inefficient. Further, the lightsources of conventional vanity mirrors are not adjustable or aredifficult to effectively adjust.

Certain embodiments disclosed herein pertain to a mirror assembly 2. Asshown in FIGS. 1-6, the mirror system or assembly 2 can include a visualimage reflective surface, such as a mirror 50. In certain embodiments,the mirror system or assembly 2 comprises a housing portion 10. As shownin FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing portion 10 can include a head portion 40,a shaft portion 30, and/or a base portion 20. In some implementations,the housing portion 10 can include a pivot portion 32 connecting thehead portion 40 and the shaft portion 30. In certain embodiments, themirror system or assembly 2 comprises one or more light sources.

In some embodiments, certain components of the housing portion 10 can beintegrally formed or separately formed and connected together to formthe housing portion. The housing portion 10 can comprise plastic, metal(e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.) composite, or other suitablematerials.

In some embodiments, the head portion 40 comprises a mirror 50. Incertain variants, the head portion comprises a single section/assemblyor a plurality of sections/assemblies (e.g., two, three, four, five, ormore sections) optionally comprising mirrored surfaces. As showncollectively in FIGS. 1-7, in some implementations, the head portion 40comprises a central section 42 (e.g., a primary section/primary mirrorassembly) comprising a central mirror surface 52 and one or moreflanking additional sections (e.g., secondary sections/secondaryassemblies). In some variants, as shown in FIG. 1, the head portion 40can comprise a left section 44 (e.g., a first additional section)comprising a first side mirror surface 54 and a right section 46 (e.g.,a second additional section) comprising a second side mirror surface 56.In some embodiments, as illustrated, the central mirror surface 52 has agreater surface area (e.g., is larger) and/or a greater width thaneither of the individual first or second side mirror surfaces 54, 56. Insome embodiments, as illustrated, the central mirror surface 52 has awidth that is at least as wide as an average human face of the targetpopulation that is expected to use the mirror assembly 2, and each ofthe first and second side mirror surfaces 54, 56 has a width that issmaller than the width of an average human face of the target populationthat is expected to use the mirror system or assembly 2. In someembodiments, the central mirror surface 52 has a width that is at least:about 4″, about 5″, about 6″, about 7″, or about 8″. In some variants,the first and second side mirror surfaces 54, 56 independently havewidths that are at least: about 90%, about 80%, about 70%, about 60%,about 50%, about 40%, about 30%, about 20%, or about 10% of the width ofthe central mirror surface 52. As shown, in some embodiments, thevertical height of each of the mirror sections (e.g., mirror surfaces52, 54, 56) can be approximately the same. While the mirror assembly 2of FIG. 1 comprises a central section 42 laterally adjacent to (or inbetween) one or more of additional sections 44, 46 (e.g., mirroredsurfaces), this configuration is merely illustrative and it should beappreciated that other configurations and section positions arepossible. For instance, in certain variants, the central section canhave one or more sections to the top, bottom, sides, and/or diagonaldirections. In some embodiments, a central mirror is not required andalternative configurations (e.g., side-by-side and top-bottom) arepossible.

As shown in FIG. 8, the sections can further comprise support framesand/or backings. For instance, the central section 42 can comprise oneor more of a central mirrored surface 52, a support frame 41 a, and asupport backing 41 b. In some variations, the left section 44 cancomprise one or more of a mirrored surface 54, a support frame 43 a, anda support backing 43 b. In certain embodiments, the right section 46 cancomprise one or more of a mirrored surface 56, a support frame 45 a, anda support backing 45 b. These frames and backings can provide additionalstability and/or rigidity to the individual sections and to the mirroredsurfaces. The frames and backings can also provide a matrix to supportelectronic components and other devices (e.g., light sources) of themirrored assembly 2, holding them in place. In some embodiments, thematrices within the frames 41 a, 43 a, 45 a act as heat dissipaters forinternal components. In certain variants, the sections 42, 44, 46comprise mirrored surfaces without frames and backings. In certainvariants, each section can provide a platform on which one or aplurality of mirrors can be attached. In some embodiments, the headportion can comprise a single section without additional sections.

In some variants, the head portion 40 comprises one or more mechanismsto actively and/or passively dissipate, transfer, or radiate heat energyaway from heat-producing features (e.g., a light source, transistors,memory components, power sources, etc.). In some embodiments, as shownin FIG. 8, the mirror assembly can comprise an active heat dissipatersuch as a fan 72. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, themirror assembly can comprise passive heat dissipaters such as vents 75.In certain implementations, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the mirrorassembly 2 may comprise one or more passive heat dissipating radiatingstructures 76 (e.g., walls, ribs, blades, ridges, etc.). In someimplementations, the radiating structures 76 provide additionalstructural support to one or more mirror assembly features. In someembodiments, the radiating structures 76 can include one or morecomponents that are generally comparatively long in one dimension,generally comparatively wide in another dimension, and generallycomparatively narrow in another dimension, to provide a large surfacearea over a thin surface to conduct heat efficiently and away fromheat-sensitive electronic components in the mirror assembly 2. Forexample, the length of a passive heat dissipating structure can besubstantially greater than the width of the heat dissipating structure,and the width of the heat dissipating structure can be substantiallygreater than the thickness.

The heat dissipating structures can be formed of materials with a highrate of heat conduction, such as aluminum or steel, to help remove heatgenerated by heat-producing features from the mirror assembly. Manyother heat-dissipating materials, such as copper or brass, can be used.For active heat dissipation, plastics and other non-conductive materialsare suitable.

In some embodiments, the head portion 40 can include a compartment 70located in the head portion 40 of the mirror assembly 2 for receiving aheat dissipating structures (e.g., a fan 72).

In some embodiments, the radiating structures 76 or portions of theradiating structures are configured to conduct electricity to mirrorassembly 2 features requiring power (e.g., light sources, fans,circuitry, etc.). This electrical conduction reduces the total number ofnecessary components. In some embodiments, the heat dissipatingstructures 72, 76 can be electrically connected via conduits 73 a (e.g.,wires) to a power source 74 (e.g., batteries packs, electrical outletsetc.) and/or circuit boards. In some embodiments, the power source 74provides electric power and signals to the fan 72. In some embodiment,other electronic components can be connected to power sources and/orcontrol systems via conduits. For example, in certain variants, lightsources 60 for the mirror assembly 2 can be electrically connected viaconduits 73 b (e.g., wires) or conducting features (e.g., conductiveportions of the frame or backing) to a power source 74 (e.g. batteriespacks, etc.). In some embodiments, light sources 60 can be connected topower sources via circuit boards that provide, in addition to electricpower, signals and/or data to the light sources 60.

In some embodiments, the temperature of heat generating components(e.g., light sources 60, etc.) can be controlled to be less than orequal to about 70° F. using the heat dissipating structures. In someembodiments, the temperature of the light sources 60 can be controlledto be between about 50° F. and 60° F. using heat-dissipating structures.In certain implementations, the active heat dissipating structures canbe controlled by circuit boards and processing units to automaticallydissipate heat from the light sources once a certain temperature isachieved (e.g., at least about 70° F., 80° F., 90° F., 100° F., 120° F.,140° F., etc.). In some embodiments, the fan 72 is controlled (e.g., byan algorithm, a controller, etc.) to dissipate heat above a certaintemperature.

In some embodiments, one or more of the sections are independentlyadjustable or articulatable or rotatable with respect to one or more ofthe other sections, such as in various opened or closed positions. Afully opened position can exist, for example, where one or more mirroredsurfaces of adjacent mirrored sections form an α angle (or α′) that isequal to or greater than about 180° (e.g., adjacent mirrored surfacesthat are essentially flush or form obtuse angles with respect to eachother, such that each of the adjacent mirrored surfaces are essentiallyco-planar). A partially opened position can exist, for example, whereone or more surfaces of adjacent mirrored sections form an α angle thatis equal to or greater than about 90° and less than about 180°. Apartially closed position can exist, for example, where one or moresurfaces of adjacent mirrored sections creates an angle α that is lessthan about 90° and greater than about 10°. A fully closed position canexist, for example, where one or more surfaces of adjacent mirroredsections create an angle α that is less than or equal to about 10°, suchas in a storage or compact or travel mode. In some embodiments, themirror assembly 2 can comprise or can be configured to be oriented orpositioned in and/or between any one or any combination of the followingpositions: fully opened, partially opened, partially closed, and/orfully closed. An “opened” position encompasses both a “fully opened” anda “partially opened” position; and a “closed” position encompasses botha “fully closed” and a “partially closed” position. In some embodiments,as shown, when at least two mirror sections are partially open orpartially closed with respect to each other, the mirror assembly 2 isconfigured to enable a user to view a side or rear portion of the user'shead or face, when the user is facing forward into the mirror assembly2, a view that would not normally be visible in an essentially planarorientation or fully open position of the mirror assembly 2. In certainimplementations, the left section 44 and right section 46 can beindependently or cooperatively placed in closed positions or openedpositions. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 12, thesections 42, 44, 46 of the head portion 40 are independently adjustable.In some embodiments, the sections of the head portion are cooperativelyadjustable and as, for example, the left section is moved to an angle αwith respect to the central section, the right section automaticallymoves to approximately that same angle α. In some embodiments, thesections 42, 44, 46 are independently positionable and movable withrespect to one or more of the shaft portion 30, the base portion 20,and/or with respect to other head portion sections.

In certain variants, as illustrated, two or more of the sections 42, 44,46 are interconnected via one or more moveable attachment features(e.g., hinges, ball joints, telescoping arms, or the like). Forinstance, as shown in FIGS. 14A-C, a first section, such as the centralsection 42, can be connected to a second section, such as the left sidesection 44, via one or more hinges 90 and to the right side section 46via one or more right side hinges 90. FIGS. 15-17 (where FIG. 17 is anexploded view) show an embodiment of the mirror assembly 2 with section44 removed and illustrate certain features of the hinges 90. In someimplementations, as shown in FIGS. 14A-17, the hinges 90 can be fastened(e.g., screwed, bolted, glued, riveted, etc.) into place via anattachment implement 91 (e.g., a surface plate, etc.). In certainvariants, the attachment implement secures the hinge to one or more ofthe frame, the support backing, and/or the mirrored surface directly(e.g., in embodiments where the support and frame features are notpresent). As shown in FIGS. 14-17, in some embodiments, the hingescomprise surface plates 91 that can engage the support frame, backing,or mirror of one section and connect it to the support frame, backing,or mirror of another section.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 15-17, supplemental supportimplements 57 (e.g., tabs, swivels, etc.) provide an additionalstabilizing feature for the side sections 44, 46. In some embodiments,the support implements 57 prolong the life of the hinges by reducing theload on the hinges.

In some assemblies, the attachment features (e.g., one or more hinges,struts, sliders, joints, etc.) and/or the supplemental support elementsprovide resistance (e.g., with friction and/or traction caused by rubberor plastic gaskets, teeth, or otherwise) to the movement of the sections42, 44, 46 relative to one another. In certain variants, this resistance(e.g., stiffness) allows a user to make fine adjustments or movements tothe positioning of one or more of the side mirror surfaces 54, 56 andcentral mirror surface 52, such that the one or more side mirrorsurfaces 54, 56 and/or central mirror surface 52 remain in place afterthe user has adjusted or moved the one or more side mirror surfaces 54,56 or central mirror surface 52. In certain implementations, the user isable to position one or more of the mirrored surfaces at desired anglesto view particular features of the user. This positionability allows theuser to visualize hard-to-see features during grooming. In someembodiments, the hinges can be temporarily locked in place to preventmovement of one or more of the sections. In some embodiments, the hingeshave a plurality of preset positions. In certain implementations, one ormore of the attachment features can comprise or can be functionallyconnected with a damper. In some variants, the damper restrains (e.g.,slows down, depresses, deadens, etc.) the movement of the attachmentfeature. In some variants, the damper allows one or more of the mirroredsections to move slowly, softly, and/or in a controlled manner, into oneor more preset positions (e.g., the opened position, the closedposition, and positions in between). In some embodiments, an audible ortactile click or bump or momentary stop or increase in resistance tomovement occurs as a mirrored section moves into or past one or more ofthe preset positions. In certain variants, the damper prevents mirroredsections from abruptly slamming into a preset position (e.g., the openedposition, the closed position, etc.). In some embodiments, the damperreduces vibration of the mirrored sections as they move about the axisof the hinge. In some implementations, the damper is positioned along aportion of a shaft connecting the central and side mirrors.

In certain implementations, as mentioned above, adjacent mirror sections(e.g., 52 and 54 or 52 and 56) are independently adjustable to angles αrelative to each other. For example, adjacent sections (and/or mirroredsurfaces) of the head portion can be placed in an opened position or inone or more closed positions. For example, FIG. 1 shows an embodiment ofthe mirror assembly in an open position (e.g., where adjacent mirroredsurfaces central mirrored surface 52 is at a maximum angle α to the leftmirror surface 54 and the right mirror surface 56). FIG. 12 shows themirror assembly of FIG. 1 in a partially closed position (e.g., whereone or more of the mirrored sections form an α angle that is smallerthan when in the fully open position). FIG. 12 shows a view where thecentral mirror section 52 and right mirror section 56 are at leastpartially closed and where the central mirror section 52 and the leftmirror section 54 are in an opened position.

In certain variants, adjacent mirrored surfaces can be positioned at αangles equal to or less than about 180°, about 170°, about 160°, about150°, about 140°, about 130°, about 120°, about 110°, about 100°, about90°, about 80°, about 70°, about 60°, values between the aforementionedvalues, or otherwise. In certain embodiments, the opened position canhave an angle α greater than about 180°. In some variants, adjacentmirrors can be positioned with respect to one another at angles α in arange between about 45° and about 180°, about 90° and about 180°, orabout 120° and about 180°. In some variants, adjacent mirrors can bepositioned with respect to one another at angles α in a range betweenabout 45° and about 90°, about 90° and about 120°, about 120° and about130°, about 130° and about 140°, about 140° and about 150°, about 150°and about 160°, about 160° and about 170°, or about 170° and about 180°.In some embodiments, different, discrete, preset α angle positions canbe selected so that when the user urges the mirror out of one presetposition, the mirrored surface slips into the next preset position. Insome embodiments, the mirrored surfaces have a plurality (e.g., 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, or more) of preset positions.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 14B, in some variants, the hinge 90comprises a positioning assembly or system that concurrently orsimultaneously provides an “invisible” or recessed rotatable hinge whilealso providing a very small gap or virtually no gap distance betweenadjacent mirror sections. For example, as illustrated, the positioningassembly or system can comprise a rotational assembly that in someembodiments includes a cam 92, and a translational or linear movementassembly that in some embodiments includes a sliding relationshipbetween at least two supporting components of one or more mirrorassemblies. As illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 1 and 2, an“invisible” or recessed hinge (e.g., positioned behind the mirroredsurface) can permit multiple mirror sections to be positioned adjacentto each other with a very small or essentially no distracting visibleinterruption between them. In contrast, if a hinge assembly is providedthat is even or flush with or in front of one or more of the mirroredsurfaces, or if one or more of the mirrored surfaces are notched orotherwise shaped to expose a hinge assembly in the front view, as insome embodiments, then the user of the mirror system will lose a portionof the mirrored viewing surface to the hinge assembly. However, in amirror system where the hinge assembly is recessed or positioned behindthe mirrored surface, a significant, visually distracting gap betweenthe adjacent mirror surfaces would ordinarily be needed to provideclearance for one or more of the edges of the adjacent mirror surfacesto rotate with respect to each other. Some embodiments, as illustratedin FIGS. 14A-14C, can be configured to simultaneously provide a recessedor “invisible” hinge and a very small or virtually non-existent gapbetween adjacent mirror sections. In some embodiments, as illustrated,the gap between adjacent mirror sections can be smaller when fullyopened (e.g., when two or more of the adjacent mirrored surfaces form anangle of approximately 180 degrees) than when the adjacent mirroredsurfaces are in an angled or rotating orientation. In some embodiments,as shown, the gap or seam between adjacent mirror sections when fullyopened can be approximately equal to or less than the front-to-backthickness of the reflective portion of either or both of the mirrorsections. As shown, for example in FIG. 14B, both the rotationalassembly and the translational or linear movement assembly can bepositioned within the housing of the mirror system, and/or can bepositioned in close proximity or adjacent to each other, and/or can bepositioned behind the mirror surface, and/or can be positioned in directcontact with each other during at least one or more stages oforientation of the adjacent mirror sections. In some embodiments, asshown, the axis of rotation of the rotational assembly can benon-parallel or generally perpendicular to the direction of translationof the translational or linear movement assembly.

In certain implementations, at least a portion of the rotationalassembly, such as the cam 92, allows adjacent mirrored surfaces (e.g.,52 and 54) to remain in close proximity to one another during operationof the hinge 90 (e.g., opening and closing of the hinge). For instance,as the hinge 90 is opened (e.g., brought from an smaller angle to alarger angle), as shown in FIGS. 14A-C, the cam 92 can allow the sidemirror surface 54 to move laterally inward or outward by way of thetranslational or linear movement assembly relative to the central mirrorsurface 52, better aligning or positioning the mirrored surfaces forrotation and minimizing the distance between mirrored surfaces 96.Conversely, as the hinge is closed (e.g., where the mirrored surfacesare brought from a larger angle to a smaller angle), the cam 92 urgesthe side mirror surface 54 to stay in proximity to (e.g., stays tightlyassociated to) the central mirror surface 52 so that the mirroredsurfaces maintain a minimal seam 96 (e.g., a minimal gap).

In some embodiments, the gap or seam 96 between the central mirrorsurface 52 and an adjacent side mirror surface 54, 56 cannot be readilyperceived by a user (e.g., is not visible or not visible in a mannerthat distracts from or appreciably obstructs the user's view in themirror system) when the mirror assembly 2 is in the fully open positionand/or in an angled or closed position (e.g., when a side mirror surfacehas been placed in a position that is at an angle smaller than 180° withrespect to the central mirror surface). As illustrated, in someembodiments, the width β of the seam 96 between any two adjacent mirrorsin a first position is different from the width β′ of the seam 96 in asecond position. For example, the width β of the seam 96 between any twoadjacent mirrors in an essentially fully opened or essentially planarposition can be smaller than the width β′ of the seam 96 in an angled ornon-planar position. In some embodiments, the width of the seam 96between a side mirror and the central mirror is the same when the mirrorassembly is in the fully opened position or a closed position (e.g.,β=β′). In some embodiments, the difference between the width β of theseam 96 between mirrors when the mirror assembly is in the fully openedposition from the width β′ of the seam 96 a closed position differs byless than or equal to about: 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 25%, 40%, or 50%.FIGS. 14A-C illustrate that the action of the cam 92 allows the mirrorsurfaces to remain in close proximity to each other with minimal widthβ, β of the visible seam 96 between the mirrors. In some embodiments,the widths β, β of the seam 96 are less than or equal to: about 4 mm,about 2 mm, about 1.5 mm, about 1.0 mm, about 0.5 mm, or about 0.25 mm.In some embodiments, when a user is centrally positioned about 12 inchesfrom the central mirror, the seam 96 is not perceived as a gap betweenthe mirrored surfaces by the user.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14B, the translational or linearmovement assembly of the hinge 90 further comprises a spring 94. Incertain implementations, as shown, the spring loading of thetranslational or linear movement assembly of the hinge helps to exert aforce that urges adjacent mirror sections toward each other, and/or thatholds the mirrored surfaces and/or sections in proximity to one anotherduring movement about the axis of the hinge 90 via the cam 92. Incertain variants, as shown, the cam of the rotational assembly contactsor presses on the spring of the translational or linear movementassembly when pivoting and the spring biases the side mirror back towardthe seam. In certain implementations, the spring loading provides someresistance and oppositional force to movement of the mirrored surfaceswith respect to one another and/or allows smooth movement of thesurfaces. In certain implementations, the spring loading allows themirrored surfaces to easily adjust into the next available preset mirrorposition.

In some embodiments, the cam 92 has engaging features 93 (e.g., teeth,traction implements, etc.) that engage one another during movement ofthe hinge 90. In certain variants, the teeth 93 allow smooth and steadymovement of the hinges 90 without slippage. In some implementations,where the hinge 90 comprises both teeth 93 and a spring 94, the springprovides additional resistance to the movement of the sections 42, 44,46 with respect to one another. In some embodiments, this resistanceensures that the sections 42, 44, 46 move without slippage, reliably,smoothly, and/or with little applied force from the user. In certainembodiments, the hinge assembly gives the mirrored section a weightedfeel when force is first applied and then freer movement as the sectionbegins to move.

In certain embodiments, the hinges can comprise plastic, rubber, metal(e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.), composite, or other suitablematerials.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the mirrored surfaces 52, 54, 56,together or individually, can have a generally rectangular or generallysquare shape. In certain variants, the mirrored surface can instead havean overall shape that is generally square, generally circular, generallyellipsoidal, generally rhomboidal, and/or any other suitable shape. Insome embodiments, when present, the different mirrored surfaces of agiven mirror assembly can have different shapes and those shapes can bemixed and matched and interconnected via attachment features, etc.

In certain embodiments, each mirror can have a width and a length, thedimensions of which can be independently selected. The height can bealong the general direction extending from a bottom portion of themirror assembly upwardly. The width can be along the general directionextending transversely with respect to the height. In some embodiments,a mirrored surface can have a height (in inches) that is greater than orequal to about: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 30, ranges formed bythe aforementioned values, values between the aforementioned values, orotherwise. In certain implementations, a mirrored surface can have awidth (in inches) that is greater than or equal to about: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8,10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 30, ranges formed by the aforementioned values,values between the aforementioned values, or otherwise. In certainembodiments, the ratio between the surface area of central mirroredsurface and a side mirrored surface is at least about: 10:1, 5:1, 1:1,1:5, 1:10, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, and otherwise. Insome embodiments, where present, the primary or central mirror is largerthan a secondary side mirror by at least about 10%, about 25%, about50%, about 100%, values between the aforementioned values, or otherwise.In certain implementations, each mirror section is approximately thesame size.

Rectangular mirrors can be selected by using a mirror having four sidesat approximately right angles to one another with a height that isgreater than the width (or a width that is greater than the height).Other shapes can be selected by selecting mirrors with curved cornersand other length and width dimensions. For instance, configurations withellipsoidal mirrors can be selected by using rounded mirrors with widthsgreater than their heights (or heights greater than their widths),square and circular dimensions can be implemented using mirrors havingsubstantially the same height and width, etc.

In some embodiments, the mirror 50 can have a thickness of at leastabout 2 mm and/or less than or equal to about 3 mm. In some embodiments,the thickness is less than or equal to about two millimeters and/orgreater than or equal to about three millimeters, depending on thedesired properties of the mirror 50 (e.g., reduced weight or greaterstrength). In some embodiments, the surface area of the mirror 50 issubstantially greater than the surface area of the base portion 40. Inother embodiments, the surface area of the image-reflecting surface ofthe mirror 50 is greater than the surface area of the base 20.

The mirror 50 can include a generally flat or generally sphericalsurface, which can be convex or concave. The radius of curvature candepend on the desired optical power. In some embodiments, the radius ofcurvature can be at least about 15 inches and/or less than or equal toabout 30 inches. The focal length can be half of the radius ofcurvature. For example, the focal length can be at least about 7.5inches and/or less than or equal to about 15 inches. In someembodiments, the radius of curvature can be at least about 18 inchesand/or less than or equal to about 24 inches. In some embodiments, themirror 4 can include a radius of curvature of about 20 inches and afocal length of about 10 inches. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 isaspherical, which can facilitate customization of the focal points. Insome embodiments, the mirrored surface can be flexible. In certainimplementations, the flexible mirror surface allows a user to transforma flat mirror into a parabolic/curved mirror when desired.

In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the mirror 50 iscontrolled such that the magnification (optical power) of the object isat least about 1.25 times larger, at least about 1.5 times larger, atleast about 2 times larger and/or less than or equal to about 7 timeslarger. In certain embodiments, the magnification of the object is about5 times larger. In some embodiments, the mirror can have a radius ofcurvature of about 19 inches and/or about 7 times magnification. In someembodiments, the mirror can have a radius of curvature of about 24inches and/or about 5 times magnification.

The mirror 50 can be highly reflective (e.g., has at least about 90%reflectivity). In some embodiments, the mirror 50 has greater than about70% reflectivity and/or less than or equal to about 90% reflectivity. Inother embodiments, the mirror 50 has at least about 80% reflectivityand/or less than or equal to about 100% reflectivity. In certainembodiments, the mirror has about 87% reflectivity. The mirror 50 can becut out or ground off from a larger mirror blank so that mirror edgedistortions are diminished or eliminated.

One or more filters can be provided on the mirror to adjust one or moreparameters of the reflected light. In some embodiments, the filtercomprises a film and/or a coating that absorbs or enhances thereflection of certain bandwidths of electromagnetic energy. In someembodiments, one or more color adjusting filters, such as a Makrolonfilter, can be applied to the mirror to attenuate desired wavelengths oflight in the visible spectrum.

The mirror 50 can be highly transmissive (e.g., nearly 100%transmission). In some embodiments, transmission can be at least about90%. In some embodiments, transmission can be at least about 95%. Insome embodiments, transmission can be at least about 99%. The mirror 50can be optical grade and/or comprise glass. For example, the mirror 50can include ultra-clear glass. Alternatively, the mirror 50 can includeother translucent and/or transparent materials, such as plastic, nylon,acrylic, combinations thereof or other suitable materials. The mirror 50can also include a backing layer comprising a reflective material (e.g.,aluminum, silver, etc.). In some embodiments, the backing layer canimpart a slightly colored tone to the mirror (such as a warm or coolcolor tone). In some embodiments, an aluminum backing can prevent rustformation and provide an even color tone. The mirror 50 can bemanufactured using molding, machining, grinding, polishing, or othertechniques.

The mirror assembly 2 can include one or more light sources 60configured to emit light. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, themirror assembly can include a plurality (e.g., two, three, four, five,or more) of light sources 60 including, as shown, a left light source 60a and a right light source 60 b. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS.10 and 11, the light source(s) 60 can be positioned within a portionand/or supported by the central support 42. In some embodiments, thelight sources 60 are directly mounted to the mirror surfaces atspaced-apart intervals around the periphery of the mirror. For example,the light sources 60 can be positioned around some, substantially all,or all of the periphery of the mirror 50. In certain embodiments, thelight source 60 can be separate from and not connected with the mirrorassembly 2.

The light sources 60 can be positioned in various orientations inrelation to each other, such as side-by-side, or otherwise. In someembodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11, 18, and 19, the light sources 60 canbe positioned to emit light in the same direction by placing lightemitters 64 facing in the same general direction. As shown in FIG. 11,in certain implementations, a left light source 60 a projects lightupwardly at one peripheral side of the central mirrored surface 52 and aright light source 60 b projects light in the same general direction ata peripheral side of the central mirrored surface 52 opposite that ofthe left light source 60 a. In certain embodiments, the light sourcescan be positioned to emit light in opposing directions (e.g., up versusdown, etc.). In some embodiments, the light sources can be positioned totransmit light parallel, orthogonally, or otherwise with respect toother light sources. In certain embodiments, the light sources 60 can bepositioned to emit light generally orthogonally to the viewing surfaceof the mirror assembly 2. In certain embodiments, the light sources 60can be positioned to emit light in a direction generally within theplane (or in a direction parallel to the plane) of a mirror surface 52,54, 56. In some embodiments, the light sources can be positioned to emitlight diagonally along the mirrored surface, downwardly, upwardly, or atcombinations of these directions.

Various light emitters 64 can be used in the light sources 60. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the light sources 60 can compriseone or a plurality of (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more) lightemitting diodes (LEDs) 68. In some embodiments, other light emitters 64can be used (e.g., fluorescent light sources, incandescent lightsources, halogen light sources, etc.). LEDs may offer advantages such aslonger lifetimes and higher color rendering indices. In someembodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, each light source 60 a, 60 bcan comprise a plurality (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, or more) ofLEDs 68. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18, the left light source60 a can comprise four LEDs 68 and the right light source 60 b cancomprise four LEDs 68. In some embodiments, one or more LEDs of a singlelight source can be the same or different (e.g., have the same or adifferent color or color temperature). For example, in certain variants,a light source comprising four LEDs can comprise two pairs of LEDs wherethe LEDs in a pair are identical. In other embodiments, each LED in asingle light source is different. In some embodiments, when multiplelight sources are present, the light sources can comprise LEDs that arethe same (e.g., having the same color, temperature, and number of LEDsin an each light source) or different (e.g., having one or more LED thatis different from an LED of different light source). In someembodiments, different light sources of the mirror assembly areindependently adjustable to provide accomplish any lighting environmentdesired. In some embodiments, LEDs can be paired with other LEDs oflower or higher color temperatures. In certain implementations, LEDs canbe paired with other LEDs of with colors that have lower or higherwavelengths.

In some embodiments, as shown FIG. 11 and as exploded views in FIGS. 17and 18, a light path can be formed using the light emitters 64. In someembodiments, the light path is path of light that can be perceived by auser. For instance, a plurality (e.g., two) light paths are present inFIG. 11, each running from the bottom of the head portion 40 to the topof the head portion 40 and each located on an opposite side of thecentral section 42. As shown, one or more of the light paths can extendin an approximately straight direction from a top portion to a bottomportion. In some embodiments, a light path comprises a lighttransmissive elongate tube, strip, or column. For instance, the lightemitters 64 can be positioned in a space that forms a column 66 (i.e., alight column or light pipe), as shown with the cover 62 a removed inFIG. 11. In some embodiments, the column 66 creates an illuminated lightpath along the direction of the column 66. While these light pathsproject straightwardly, where curved mirrors are implemented, curvedlight paths can be used.

In certain embodiments, the column 66 comprises a light transmissivecover (in FIGS. 10 and 11, the left column comprises a left transmissivecover 62 a and the right column comprises a right transmissive cover 62b). In some embodiments, the transmissive covers 62 a, 62 b are fixed inplace by attachment to the head portion 40 (via an engagement means, bysnapping into the frame 41 a, etc.).

In certain implementations, as shown in FIGS. 8, 11, and 17, thebackside of the light column 66 can include a reflective material toachieve high reflectivity. This reflective backing material 67 along therear side of the light column 66 can reflect light and project ittowards the user. In some embodiments, the reflective material canreflect at least about 95% of light. In some embodiments, the reflectivematerial reflects about 98% of light. In certain implementations, thereflective material can be optically reflective paper. As shown in FIG.11, the head portion 40 can include a structure, such as a ridge 77,which can comprise a wall of the column 66 (e.g., a portion of the lightcolumn 66 can be disposed along the ridge 77) or otherwise support thelight column 66. In some embodiments, the ridge 77 is configured todissipate heat.

Some or all of the light from the light sources 60 can be transmittedgenerally toward, or into, the one or more light columns 66. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 11, the light column 66 can include proximalends 66 a and 66 b, and the light emitters 64 can emit light from theproximal ends 66 a, 66 b of the light column 66 in the general directionof the column to distal ends of the column 66 c, 66 d. The light sources60 can be positioned such that light is emitted orthogonally withrespect to the direction of the light emitter 64 and generally toward auser facing the viewing surface of the mirror assembly 2. For example,some or all of the light from the light sources 60 can be emittedtoward, and/or reflected off of, another component before contacting theuser.

In some embodiments, the column 66 can be filled with a transparentmaterial (e.g., a gas, a solid, or a liquid). In some variants, thecolumn can be evacuated. In certain variants, the column 66 can befilled with a partially transparent material suitable for allowing lightto travel along the direction of the light path. In some embodiments,the light path comprises a light transmissive elongate tube or a lighttransmissive strip of material (e.g., porous or clear plastic).

As shown in FIG. 11, the light column 66 can be rectangular prismshaped. In certain embodiments, the light column can be substantiallycylindrically shaped. In some embodiments, the light column can besubstantially linearly shaped, or, as discussed above, the light column66 can have a non-linear or circular shape. The light column can includeacrylic, polycarbonate, or any other clear, highly transmissive, orpartially transmissive material.

As stated above, light can pass along and through a portion of the lightcolumn 66 and/or emit from the light column 66 via an outer face (e.g.,a light transmissive cover 62 a, 62 b) of the light column 66. In someembodiments, the light column 66 is configured to transmit at leastabout 95% of the light emitted from the light sources 60. The lightsources 60 can be configured, in combination with light column 66, toemit light generally around the periphery of the mirror 50 or theperiphery of a mirrored surface 52, 54, 56. The light column 66 can beconfigured to disperse light from the light sources 60 through the lightcolumn 66. The light sources 60 and the light column 66 can beconfigured such that the amount of light emitted from the outer face issubstantially constant along the length of the light column 66. Manydifferent ways of achieving a substantially constant intensity ofconveyed light around the light column 66 can be used.

The head portion 40 and/or the light column 66 can include features tofacilitate generally even or uniform diffusion, scattering, and/orreflection of the light emitted by the light sources 60 around theperiphery of the mirror, and/or along a length of the light column 66(e.g., from a top portion of the light column 66 to a bottom portion ofthe light column 66). For example, the head portion 40 and/or lightcolumn 66 can include an irregular anterior and/or posterior surface(e.g., on a transmissive cover 62 a, 62 b) that is molded in a non-flatand/or non-planar way, etched, roughened, painted, and/or otherwisesurface modified. The light scattering elements can be configured todisperse a substantially constant amount of light along the periphery ofthe mirror (e.g., the central mirrored surface 52). These features canhelp achieve high energy-efficiency, reducing the total number of lightsources necessary to light substantially the entire periphery of themirror and reducing the running temperature of the mirror assembly 2.

The light transmissive covers 62 a, 62 b of the light column 66 cancomprise a generally translucent material with varying degrees ofscattering. In some embodiments, the minimum amount of scattering occursin a region of the light column 66 proximal 66 a, 66 b to the lightemitters 64 and the maximum scattering occurs in a region of the lightcolumn 66 that is located farthest from the light emitters 64 (e.g., atthe distal ends of the column 66 c, 66 d). The light column 66 cancomprise a region configured to scatter light in a varying and/orgradient manner. In some embodiments, the light conveying pathway orlight column 66 can comprise a varying, non-constant, non-smoothanterior, posterior, and/or interior surface formed from any suitableprocess, such as molding, etching (e.g., sand blasting), rougheningpainting, coating, and/or other methods. In some embodiments, one ormore surface irregularities can be very small bumps, protrusions, and/orindentations.

In some embodiments, light passing through the light column 66 can bescattered at a plurality of different intensity levels, depending on thelocation of the light within the light column 66. For example, light ata first location on the light column 66 can be scattered at a firstintensity level, light at a second location on the light column 66 canbe scattered at a second intensity level, and light at a third locationon the light column 66 can be scattered at a third intensity level, withthe third intensity level being more than the second intensity level,and the second intensity level being more than the first intensitylevel., etc. Many other levels of scattering and many ways of spatiallyincreasing or decreasing scattering can be used instead of or inaddition to providing macro scattering elements, such as spatiallyvarying a level of die or a frosting effect within the material of thelight column 66, or by spatially varying scattering particles embeddedwithin the material, or by spatially varying a surface pattern on one ormore outside surfaces of the material. In some embodiments, a smoothgradient of scattering elements can be used to achieve the desiredlighting effect (e.g., constant light intensity emission or gradientlight intensity emission).

The light column 66 (e.g., the transmissive cover 62 a, 62 b) caninclude a surface pattern, such as light scattering elements (e.g., adot pattern). The light scattering elements can be configured toencourage a portion of the light passing through the light column 66 toexit the outer face of the light column 66, thereby generallyilluminating the user in a generally even or generally uniform manner.The light scattering elements 64 can be configured such that the lightintensity emitted from the outer face of the light column 66 issubstantially constant along a substantial portion of, or virtually theentirety of, the length of the light column 66. Accordingly, the usercan receive generally constant light volume or intensity around theperiphery of the mirror. For example, the light scattering elements caninclude one or more of varied density, irregular patterns, or variedsizes.

The light scattering elements can be less dense near the light sources60, and become increasingly dense as a function of increased distancefrom the light sources 60. Such a configuration can, for example, reducethe amount of light that is scattered or reflected (and thus exits theouter face) in areas having generally increased light volume or lightintensity, such as portions of the light column 66 that are near thelight sources 60. Further, such a configuration can encourage additionalscattering or reflection (and thus increase the amount that exits theouter face) in areas having generally decreased light volume orintensity, such as portions of the light column 66 that are spaced awayfrom the light sources 60. Accordingly, the mirror assembly 2 can avoidbright areas at some portions of the periphery of the mirror and darkareas at other portions. The mirror assembly 2 can have a substantiallyconstant amount of light emitted along some, substantially all, or allof the periphery of the mirror surface(s).

The light scattering elements can be dispersed in an irregular pattern,such that the light scattering pattern in a first region is differentthan a light scattering pattern in a second region. A distance between afirst light scattering element and a second light scattering element canbe different than a distance between a first light scattering elementand a third light scattering element.

The sizes (e.g., the diameter) of the light scattering elements can bevaried. In some variants, the light scattering elements near the lightsources 60 can have a smaller size when compared to light scatteringelements that are farther from the light sources 60. For example, thelight scattering elements can include a smaller diameter near the lightsources 60 and become increasingly larger as a function of distance fromthe light sources 60. Such a configuration allows substantially evenreflection of light to the outer surface 60. In certain embodiments,each light scattering element has a diameter of less than or equal toabout one millimeter. In some embodiments, the light scattering elementseach have a diameter greater than or equal to about one millimeter.

In some embodiments, the light scattering elements can be generallycircular. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements have othershapes, such as generally square, generally rectangular, generallypentagonal, generally hexagonal, generally octagonal, generally oval,and otherwise. In certain embodiments, the pattern in the light column66 is a series of lines, curves, spirals, or any other pattern. Incertain embodiments, the light scattering elements are white. The lightscattering elements can be dispersed such that the light column 66appears frosted. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements arenot easily visible to the user. For example, the light column 66 can beslightly opaque to conceal the appearance of the surface pattern. Insome embodiments, the light scattering elements are visible to the user,the light column 66 can be clear to show the general color and patternof the surface elements.

In some embodiments, the light path is concealed by the mirror 50 andonly visible when the light emitters 64 are activated. For instance, insome embodiments, the mirror 50 has at least some portion that ispartially transparent at or along the general direction of the lightstrip. In some embodiments, the light sources can be hidden behind aportion of mirrored surface so that they are out of sight. For instance,as shown in FIG. 9, partially transparent mirrored surfaces 53 (e.g.,two-way mirrored glass) can form the side portions of the centralmirrored surface 52. When viewed from the front of the mirror, thesepartially transparent surfaces are reflective and appear as a normalpart of the mirrored surface. As a light emitter or a light source isactivated, light can then transmit through the two-way mirror andilluminate the user. In some embodiments, only when illuminated are thelight sources visible from the on the mirror system. In some variants,the light strip is not concealed by the viewing surface. For instance,in certain implementations, even when inactive, the light source(s) arevisible when a user is positioned in front of the mirror.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, one or more of light columns66 can be positioned along the side portions of the central mirroredsurface 52. In certain embodiments, as illustrated, a light column 66 ispositioned along a lateral side portion of the left side mirror surface54 and another light column 66 is positioned along a lateral sideportion of the right side mirror surface 56 (e.g., sides adjacent to thecentral mirrored surface 52 or on a side of the right and left sidemirrors opposite the central mirrored surface 52). As illustrated, insome embodiments, the plurality of light paths or columns are separatefrom each other; are positioned only in generally or substantiallyvertical orientations; and/or are not positioned around the entireperiphery of the mirror assembly 2. In some embodiments, as shown, thereis no light path or light column 66 positioned horizontally along theentire top or bottom edges of the mirror assembly 2 or along the entiretop or bottom edges of discrete sections of the mirror assembly 2. Incertain embodiments, the light column 66 extends around at leastmajority of the periphery of one or more of the mirrored surfaces,substantially the entire periphery of one or more of the mirroredsurfaces, or around the entire periphery of one or more of the mirroredsurfaces.

In some embodiments, the light sources 60 are positioned behind aportion of the mirror 50 (e.g., creating a backlighting effect of themirror 50). In some embodiments, the light sources are positioned (e.g.,by tilting) such that light emitted from the light sources contacts theviewing surface of the mirror assembly 2 at an angle, such as an acuteangle. In some embodiments, the light sources are positioned such thatlight emitted from the light sources contacts the viewing surface of themirror assembly 2 at an obtuse angle.

When installed on the support member 40, the light column 66 has alength (measured alone the general direction of light emitted from thelight emitter) a width (measured in a general direction transverse tothe length and the along the same general plane of the viewing surface)and an depth (measured in a direction generally transverse to the lengthand generally orthogonal to the viewing surface). Some variants have awidth that is greater than or equal to than the depth. In someembodiments, the width is less than the depth. In certainimplementations, the light column 66 is configured to provide adequatearea for the reflecting surface of the mirror 50 and to providesufficient area for light to be emitted from the light column 66, aswill be discussed in more detail below. For example, in someembodiments, the ratio of the width of the light column 66 to the widthof the mirror (e.g., the central mirrored surface 52) can be less thanor equal to about: ⅕, 1/15, 1/30, 1/50, values in between those values,ranges between those values, or otherwise.

In certain variants, the mirror assembly can also include a diffuser.The diffuser can be positioned on the surface of the light column and/oraround the periphery of the mirror. For example, the diffuser can bepositioned between the light column and the user to provide a diffuse,scattered light source, not a focused, sharp light source, which wouldbe less comfortable on the user's eyes. In some embodiments, thetransmissivity of the diffuser is substantially constant along itslength. In certain embodiments, the diffuser can extend the length oflight column or light path. The diffuser can include an at leastpartially opaque material. For example, the diffuser can include opticalgrade acrylic.

The diffuser can include an irregular anterior and/or posterior surfaceformed from etching, roughening, painting, and/or other methods ofsurface modification. For example, the diffuser can include a pattern oflight scattering elements created using any of the methods discussedherein. The light scattering elements can be modified to include any ofthe shapes and/or sizes discussed in connection with the light column66.

The light scattering elements can be configured to create soft light byfurther scattering the light. For example, the light scattering elementscan include a plurality of dots having the same diameter or differentdiameters. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements can beevenly dispersed across the diffuser. In other embodiments, the lightscattering elements can be randomly dispersed across the diffuser. Insome embodiments, one or more of the mirrored surfaces (e.g., thecentral mirrored surface 52) comprises light scattering elements and/ordiffusing surface portions. For instance, in certain implementations,one or more side portions of the central mirrored surface 52 cancomprise a semi-opaque, non-smooth (at a micro or macro level), and/ornon-uniform surface that can be formed in any suitable manner, such asby molding, scraping, thermal treatment, particle bombardment (e.g.,“sand blasting”), and/or chemical treatment, such as etching, to providelight diffusion or scattering. In some variants, these light scatteringelements and/or diffusing portions of the mirrored surface can bepositioned over or adjacent to or otherwise in light communication withthe light sources. In certain implementations, these light scatteringelements and/or diffusing surfaces adjust the light properties from thelight sources as discussed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, thesesurfaces can be used in addition to, or instead of the transmissivelight covers. In some embodiments, these diffusing or otherwise lightscattering portions can be integrally formed with a mirrored surface,such as by changing or treating a portion of the mirrored surface toproduce a light scattering region.

In some embodiments, each light source consumes at least about 2 wattsof power and/or less than or equal to about 3 watts of power. In certainembodiments, each light source 60 consumes about 2 watts of power.

In certain embodiments, the width of each light source 60 (measuredgenerally laterally along the width of the mirror assembly) can be lessthan or equal to about 30 mm, about 20 mm, about 10 mm, about 7.5 mm,about 6.5 mm, about 5.0 mm, about 4.0 mm, values between theaforementioned values, or otherwise.

In some implementations, either or both the color and the colortemperature of the light emitted from the mirror is independentlyadjustable. Using this adjustability, the light emitted from the lightsources 60 can be configured to mimic or closely approximate lightencountered in one or a plurality of different natural or non-naturallight environments. For example, in some variations, the light emittedfrom the mirror can mimic natural light (e.g., ambient light from thesun, moon, lightning, etc.). In certain implementations, lightingconditions that match (or closely approximate) restaurants (e.g.,incandescent lights, candlelight, etc.), offices (e.g., fluorescentlights, incandescent lights, and combinations thereof), outdoor venuesat different times of day (dawn, morning, noon, afternoon, sunset, dusk,etc.), outdoor venues at different seasons (spring, summer, fall,winter), outdoor venues having different weather conditions (sunny,overcast, partly cloudy, cloudy, moonlit, starlit, etc.), sportingarenas, opera houses, dance venues, clubs, auditoriums, bars, museums,theatres, and the like can be achieved using the mirror assembly. Insome variants, the light emitted from the mirror comprises asubstantially full spectrum of light in the visible range. The mirrorassembly can be configured to permit a user to select among thedifferent types of light (e.g., color, temperature, intensity, etc.)emitted from the one or more light sources, either on the mirrorassembly or from a remote source, or the mirror assembly can beconfigured to automatically select among the different types of lightemitted from the one or more light sources.

In some variants, the intensity of individual light sources (e.g., LEDsor combinations of LEDs) is independently adjustable. In certainimplementations, changes in color temperatures can be achieved bypairing LEDs having one color temperature with one or more differentLEDs having one or more separate color temperatures. The relativeintensity of light from those LEDs can then be individually adjusted(e.g., by adjusting the brightness of one or more LEDs) to increase ordecrease the color temperature. In some embodiments, changes in colors(e.g., hues, shades, tints, tones, tinges, etc.) can be achieved bypairing one or more LEDs having one color with one or more LEDs having adifferent color. In some embodiments, the intensity of light emittedfrom different colored LEDs can be individually adjusted to cause acolor change (e.g., to a color an individual LED or to colors achievedthrough combinations of the light emitted from the LEDs—color mixing).Adjusting the relative intensity of different LEDs can allow the user toadjust the color of the light emitted by the light sources, the colortemperature of the light emitted by the light sources, the brightness ofthe light emitted by the light sources, or combinations thereof. In someembodiments, by adjusting the intensity of individual LEDs automatically(by selecting a preset light configuration, a downloaded lightconfiguration, or an uploaded configuration) or manually (e.g., byadjusting color, tint, brightness, intensity, temperature, or otherswith manual user adjustments), the light conditions for any environmentcan be achieved.

As an example and as discussed elsewhere herein, in some embodiments,light emitters 64 can be paired with other light emitters to givedesired colors and color temperatures. For instance, in someembodiments, LEDs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4 or more) having one colortemperature (e.g., of 2700K) can be paired with LEDs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4or more) having a different color temperature (e.g., of 6500K) to form asingle light source (e.g., 60 a). In some variants, one or more LEDs(e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4 or more) having a first color (e.g., red, orange,yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, and the like) can be paired withone or more LEDs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4 or more) having a different color.

In certain variants, a light source (e.g., 60 a) can be formed usingLEDs (e.g., one or more LEDs) that emit incandescent light colortemperatures and LEDs (e.g., one or more LEDs) that emit sunlight colortemperatures. In certain variants, a pair of LEDs that emit warm (e.g.,yellow-orange) color temperatures and a pair of LEDs that emit whitelight (e.g., cool white light) are used.

In some embodiments, LEDs having color temperatures of at least: about1700K, about 1800 K, about 1900K, about 2000 K, about 2200 K, about2400K, about 2600K, about 2800 K, about 3000 K, about 3200 K, about 3400K, about 3600 K, about 3800 K, about 4000 K, about 4200 K, about 4400 K,about 4600 K, about 4800 K, about 5000 K, about 5200 K, about 5400 K,about 5600 K, about 5800 K, about 6000 K, about 6200 K, about 6400 K,about 6600 K, about 6800 K, about 7000 K, ranges spanning any two of theaforementioned values, values greater than the aforementioned values, orotherwise can be selected for use in the mirror assembly. In someembodiments, LEDs having color temperatures in the range from about 1700K to about 2500 K, from about 2500K to about 3500 K, from about 3500 Kto about 4500 K, from about 4500K to about 5500 K, from about 5500 K toabout 6500K or from about 6500K to about 7000K can be independentlypaired with LEDs having colors temperatures within these same ordifferent ranges. In some embodiments, light with color temperatures ofat least: about 1700K, about 1800 K, about 1900K, about 2000 K, about2200 K, about 2400K, about 2600K, about 2800 K, about 3000 K, about 3200K, about 3400 K, about 3600 K, about 3800 K, about 4000 K, about 4200 K,about 4400 K, about 4600 K, about 4800 K, about 5000 K, about 5200 K,about 5400 K, about 5600 K, about 5800 K, about 6000 K, about 6200 K,about 6400 K, about 6600 K, about 6800 K, about 7000 K, ranges spanningany two of the aforementioned values, values greater than theaforementioned values, or otherwise can be achieved using mirrorassembly.

By adjusting the intensity of paired LED lights, different colortemperatures and intensities can be achieved (e.g., a color temperaturesand intensities that approximate the light emitted by indoor lighting,such as an incandescent bulb or a fluorescent bulb, natural sunlight, anopen flame from a candle or fireplace, or others). These colortemperatures and intensities can be selected by a user to duplicate orreplicate particular light environments to improve the selection ofmake-up color palates, to apply make-up in optimal configurations andpatterns, and to optimize grooming and make-up application outcomes. Forinstance, a person applying make-up to be worn at a candlelit restaurantmay wish to match the color temperature and light intensity of thatenvironment when applying make-up. A person who is applying make-up tobe worn at a sunlit picnic may wish to match the color temperature andlight intensity of that environment when applying make-up. Thus, a usercan select particular temperatures of light to replicate lightingconditions.

In certain embodiments, differing light emitters (e.g., LEDs) can bepositioned at each end of a light path. For instance, LEDs withdifferent emission characteristics can be positioned both at theproximal end 66 a and the distal end 66 c of a light path. Thisconfiguration gives maximal variability for light emitted from the lightsources. For example, different LEDs can be used on each end of thelight path to increase the number of color, color temperatures, andbrightness settings that can be achieved.

In certain variants, the light emitters are controlled by an algorithmthat selects individual light emitter intensities to provide an array ofintensities, color temperatures, and color palates. In some embodiments,the light sources 60 can be adjusted to have a color temperature in therange from about 1700 K to about 6500 K from about 4500K to about 6500K. In some embodiments, the light sources 60 have a color temperature ofgreater than or equal to about 2400 K and/or less than or equal to about6800 K. In some embodiments, the color temperature of the light sources60 is at least about 5500 K and/or less than or equal to about 3000 K.In certain embodiments, the color temperature of the light sources 60 isabout 2700 K or about 6500K.

In some embodiments, the light sources 60 have a color rendering indexof at least about 45 and/or less than or equal to about 95. Certainembodiments of the one or more light emitters 64 have a color renderingindex (CRI) of at least about 50 and/or less than or equal to about 100.In some embodiments, the light emitters have a color rendering index ofat least about 87 and/or less than or equal to about 92. In someembodiments, the light emitters have a color rendering index of at leastabout 80 and/or less than or equal to about 85. In some embodiments, thelight emitters have a color rendering index of at least about 70 and/orless than or equal to about 75. In some embodiments, the light emittershave a color rendering index of at least about 45 and/or less than orequal to about 55.

In some embodiments, the luminous flux can be in a range from about 1 lmto about 110 lm. In some embodiments, the luminous flux can be adjustedto be less than or equal to about 1 lm, about 10 lm, about 20 lm, about30 lm, about 40 lm, about 50 lm, about 60 lm, about 70 lm, about 80 lm,about 90 lm, about 100 lm, about 110 lm, about 140 lm, about 160 lm,about 170 lm, about 180 lm, values between the aforementioned values,ranges spanning the aforementioned values, or otherwise. In someembodiments, the luminous flux can be at least about 80 lm and/or lessthan or equal to about 110 lm. In some embodiments, the luminous fluxcan be at least about 90 lm and/or less than or equal to about 100 lm.In some embodiments, the luminous flux can be about 95 lm.

In some embodiments, the forward voltage of each LED 68 can be at leastabout 2.4 V and/or less than or equal to about 8.0 V. In someembodiments, the forward voltage can be at least about 5.5 V and/or lessthan or equal to about 7.5 V. In some embodiments, the forward voltageis about 2.5 to about 3.5 V.

The illuminance level can be higher at a distance closer to the face ofthe mirror. In certain variants, the lux at a distance of 6 inches fromthe sensor 80 (and/or the mirror 50) is about 600 lux. In certainvariants, the lux at a distance of 6 inches from the sensor 80 (and/orthe mirror 50) is at least about 1 lux and/or less than about 1400 lux,at least about 100 lux and/or less than about 1100 lux, at least about200 lux and/or less than about 1000 lux, at least about 300 lux and/orless than about 900 lux, at least about 400 lux and/or less than about800 lux, at least about 500 lux and/or less than about 700 lux, rangesbetween the values comprising the aforementioned ranges, or otherwise.In some embodiments, the illuminance at an outer periphery of thesensing region is at least about 500 lux and/or less than or equal toabout 1000 lux. In some embodiments, the illuminance at an outerperiphery of the sensing region is about 700 lux. In some embodiments,the illuminance at an outer periphery of the sensing region is about 600lux. In some embodiments, the illuminance at an outer periphery of thesensing region is at least about 5×10⁻⁵ lux (about the illuminance ofstarlight) and/or less than about 1×10⁵ lux (about the illuminance ofdirect sunlight). In certain variants, the lux at the outer periphery ofthe sensing region is at least about 1×10⁻⁴ lux and/or less than about1×10⁴ lux, at least about 1×10⁻³ lux and/or less than about 1×10³ lux,at least about 1×10⁻² lux and/or less than about 1×10³ lux, at leastabout 1×10⁻¹ lux and/or less than about 1×10⁴ lux, ranges between theaforementioned values, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, the sensing region extends about 8, 10, 12, 16, 18,or 24 inches away from the face of the mirror. Many other sensingregions can also be utilized, some of which are described herein. Incertain variants, the mirror assembly 2 can include a dimmer to adjustthe intensity of the light.

In some embodiments, the light sources 60 are configured to providemultiple colors of light and/or to provide varying colors of light. Forexample, the light sources 60 can provide two or more discernable colorsof light, such as red light and yellow light, or provide an array ofcolors (e.g., red, green, blue, violet, orange, yellow, and otherwise).In certain embodiments, the light sources 60 are configured to changethe color or presence of the light when a condition is met or is aboutto be met. For example, certain embodiments momentarily change the colorof the emitted light to advise the user that the light is about to bedeactivated.

In certain variants, an actuator, such as a button or a sensor (e.g., acapacitive touch sensor 71) is located behind a portion of a mirroredsurface and can be activated by touching the mirrored surface indesignated locations. In some embodiments, the capacitive touch sensor71 sends signals to a controller module and allows the user to controlone or more aspects of the light emitted from the light columns throughdirectional finger movements or by touching specific areas of thecapacitive touch sensor. For instance, in some embodiments, a user canswipe (or drag) a finger in one direction (i.e., left, right, down, up,or otherwise) over the capacitive touch sensor 71 to increase the colortemperature. The user can then swipe a finger in an opposite directionto decrease the color temperature. In some variants, the user can drag afinger in a different direction over the capacitive touch sensor 71 toincrease the brightness of the light emitted from the light columns andin an opposite direction to dim the light. In some embodiments, thecolor of the light emitted can be adjusted. In some embodiments, theuser can tap a portion of the capacitive touch sensor to apply a lightsetting. In some embodiments, a capacitive touch sensor is not present.

In some embodiments, the capacitive touch sensor is operably connected(via a wire or a conduit) to the controller and/or one or a plurality ofprinted circuit boards (PCBs), which can provide hard wired feedbackcontrol circuits, a processor and memory devices for storing andperforming control routines, or any other type of controller.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a sensor assembly 80, as shown inFIGS. 17-21. The sensor assembly 80 can be positioned near a lowerregion of the mirror assembly 2 or elsewhere (e.g., the top of themirror, the bottom, a side, or otherwise). Alternatively, the sensorassembly can disposed along any other portion of the mirror assembly 2or not positioned on the mirror assembly 2. For example, the sensorassembly can be positioned in any location in a room in which the mirrorassembly 2 sits. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can be locatedin a phone or other handheld device that activates the mirror assembly 2when the user is in proximity to it.

In certain embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 comprises a housing 87that supports one or more light transmitters 82 a, 82 b and one or morereceivers 83. In some implementations, the housing 87 comprises hard orrigid plastic (e.g., injection molded or otherwise), rubber, syntheticpolymer, metal, composite, or another similar material. In someembodiments, the housing 87 comprises a projection 88 (e.g., a step,lip, elevated platform, etc.) that projects from the main body 81 of thesensor assembly 80. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 furthercomprises a gasket 85. In certain variants, the sensor assembly 80further comprises a coverslip 86. In some embodiments, the coverslip 86holds the gasket 85 in contact with or within the housing 87 and thegasket 85 is held in place by the housing 87 via the projection 88. Insome variants, the coverslip fastens into the housing 87 using afastener (e.g., a snap, clip, screw, etc.). In certain embodiments, thecoverslip 86 provides consistent distributed pressure against the gasket85 partially compressing it and/or holding it flush against the housing87 via the projection 88. In some variants, the coverslip 86, the gasket85, housing 87 assembly reproducibly provides a separation of thetransmitter 82 a, 82 b signal from the receiver 83 signal.

In some embodiments, sensor assemblies can comprise hard plastics,semi-soft polymer, and/or partially pliable materials. However, thesematerials can warp and bend when affixed in a device or over time. Thiswarping and bending may allow a signal from the transmitter to bleeddirectly into the receiver disrupting the settings of a device. In someembodiments, the sensor assembly 80, housing 87, gasket 85, andcoverslip 86 configuration can allow reliable sealing of the transmitterfrom the receiver. Furthermore, the entire assembled sensor assembly 80can be affixed to the head portion 40 of the mirror assembly viafasteners inserted through a sensor aperture 89. This sensory assembly80 beneficially minimizes bleeding of signal from the transmitters 82 a,82 b to the receiver 83 (e.g., laterally escaping or otherwise diffusingfrom the transmitters to the receiver through a portion of the sensorassembly). In some embodiments, this configuration can facilitatereplacement and fixation of the sensor assembly in the mirror assembly2.

In some embodiments, the gasket 85 is composed of a soft, resilient,and/or flexible material, such as a material selected from one or moreof the following: silicone, PTFE, rubber, polyethylene, nylon,polypropylene, composite, and the like.

The sensor assembly 80 can include a proximity sensor or areflective-type sensor. For example, the sensor 80 can be triggered whenan object (e.g., a body part) is moved into, and/or produces movementwithin, a sensing region. The sensor assembly 80 can include one or moretransmitters and receivers. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2comprises two transmitters 82 a, 82 b and a receiver 83. Thetransmitters can be configured to produce a signal (e.g.,electromagnetic energy such as infrared light), and the receiver can beconfigured to receive that signal (e.g., electromagnetic energy such asinfrared light). In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,transmitter apertures 84 can be present to facilitate signaltransmission by the transmitters through the mirror 50. In someembodiments, the receiver apertures are not present or necessary. Insome embodiments, these apertures are not present on the surface of themirror or are so small that they are not noticeable to the user. In someembodiments, when the apertures are not present, the transmitterstransmit through a two-way portion of the mirror surface (e.g., apartially transparent and partially reflective portion of the mirrorwhere, when one side of the mirror is lit and the other is dark, itallows viewing—or transmission—through the mirror from the darkened sidebut not from the lit side). The beam of light emitting from the lightemitting portions 82 a, 82 b can define a sensing region. In certainvariants, the transmitter can emit other types of energy, such as soundwaves, radio waves, or any other signals. The transmitter and receivercan be integrated into the same sensor or configured as separatecomponents.

In some embodiments, the light emitting portions 82 a, 82 b can emitlight in a generally perpendicular direction from the front face of themirror assembly. In some embodiments, the light emitting portions 82 a,82 b emit light at an angle from a perpendicular to the front face ofthe mirror assembly by at least about 5 degrees and/or less than orequal to about 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the light emittingportions 82 a, 82 b emit light at an angle from a perpendicular to thefront face of the mirror assembly by at least about 15 degrees and/orless than or equal to about 60 degrees. In certain embodiments, thelight emitting portions 82 a, 82 a emit light at a downward angle ofabout 15 degrees.

In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 can detect an object withina sensing region. In certain embodiments, the sensing region can have arange from at least about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 45degrees downward and/or upward relative to an axis extending from thesensor assembly 80, and/or relative to a line extending generallyperpendicular to a front surface of the sensor assembly, and/or relativeto a line extending generally perpendicular to the front face of themirror and generally outwardly toward the user from the top of themirror assembly. In certain embodiments, the sensing region can have arange from at least about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 25degrees downward and/or upward relative to any of these axes or lines.In certain embodiments, the sensing region can have a range from atleast about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 15 degrees downwardrelative to any of these axes or lines. In some embodiments, the sensingregion extends a particular distance away from a mirrored surface of themirror system, such that any objected detected within such distance willcause the sensor assembly 80 to trigger, causing the one or more mirrorlights, or some other functionality of the mirror system, to actuate.Any feature, structure, material, or step that is described and/orillustrated in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. No. 2013/0235610for sensing proximity to assist in actuating one or more functions, orfor increasing the sensitivity of a sensor assembly, can be used with orinstead of any feature, structure, material, or step that is describedand/or illustrated in the rest of this specification, as with all otherdisclosure.

In some embodiments, the sensing region can be adjusted by mounting thesensor assembly 80 at an angle. In certain embodiments, the sensorassembly 80 can be mounted such that the front surface of the sensingassembly 80 can be generally parallel or coplanar with a front surfaceof mirror 50. In certain embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 can bemounted such that the front surface of the sensing assembly 80 can be atan angle relative to the front surface of the mirror.

In certain embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 requires only enoughpower to generate a low power beam of light, which may or may not bevisible to the human eye. Additionally, the sensor assembly 80 canoperate in a pulsating mode. For example, the light emitting portion 82can be powered on and off in a cycle such as, for example, for shortbursts lasting for any desired period of time (e.g., less than or equalto about 0.01 second, less than or equal to about 0.1 second, or lessthan or equal to about 1 second) at any desired frequency (e.g., onceper half second, once per second, once per ten seconds). Cycling cangreatly reduce the power demand for powering the sensor assembly 80. Inoperation, cycling does not degrade performance in some embodimentsbecause the user generally remains in the path of the light beam longenough for a detection signal to be generated.

If the receiving portion 83 detects reflections (e.g., above a thresholdlevel) from an object within the beam of light emitted from the lightemitting portions 82 a, 82 b, the sensor assembly 80 send a signal tothe controller to activate a light source. In some embodiments, thecontroller assembly is operably connected (via a wire or a conduit) toone or a plurality of printed circuit boards (PCBs), which can providehard wired feedback control circuits, a processor and memory devices forstoring and performing control routines, or any other type ofcontroller.

In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 can send different signalsto a controller based on the amount of light reflected back toward thereceiver 83 a, 83 b. For example, in certain variants, the sensorassembly 80 is configured so that the amount of light emitted by thelight sources 60 is proportional to the amount of received light, whichcan indicate the distance between the mirror 50 and the user. In certainvariants, if the user is in a first sensing region, then the controllercauses the one or more light sources 60 to activate from an off state orto emit a first amount of light. If the user is in a second sensingregion (e.g., further away from the sensor assembly 80 than the firstsensing region), then the controller causes the one or more lightsources 60 to emit a second amount of light (e.g., less than the firstamount of light).

In certain variants, the controller can trigger at least two differentlevels of brightness from the light sources 60, such as brighter lightor dimmer light. For example, if the user is anywhere in a first sensingregion, then the controller signals for bright light to be emitted; ifthe user is anywhere in a second sensing region, then the controllersignals for dim light to be emitted.

The controller can also trigger more than two brightness levels. Incertain implementations, the level of emitted light is related (e.g.,linearly, exponentially, or otherwise) to the distance from the sensorto the user. For example, as the user gets closer to the sensor assembly80, the one or more light sources 60 emit more light. Alternatively, themirror assembly 2 can be configured to emit more light when the user isfurther away from the sensor assembly 80, and less light as the usermoves closer to the sensor assembly 80 (as may be configured using usersettings). In some embodiments, the multiple sensing regions allow themirror assembly to calculate the distance an object is from the mirrorand to adjust lighting settings accordingly. For instance, in certainimplementations, based on the distance the object is from the mirrorassembly, an algorithm can calculate the amount of illuminationnecessary to illuminate the object. Based on the distance, more or lesslight can be emitted from the light source to illuminate the object.

In some embodiments, the sensor assembly can include at least two lightemitting portions. Each transmitter can emit a cone of light with propershielding or guiding on the transmitters, which defines the detectionzones of the sensors (subject to the nominal range of the sensors). Thearea in which the two cones overlap creates a primary sensing region,and areas in which the two cones emit light but do not overlap create asecondary sensing region. If a user is detected in the primary sensingregion, then the sensor assembly can send an appropriate signal to thecontroller, which triggers a first level of light from the lightsources. If a user is detected in the secondary sensing region, then thesensor assembly sends an appropriate signal to the controller, whichactivates a second level of light from the light sources. In someembodiments, the first level of light is brighter than the second levelof light. In other embodiments, the second level of light is brighterthan the first level of light. In some embodiments, the sensor assemblydefines more than two sensing regions and triggers more than two levelsof light.

In some embodiments, the light emitting portions 82 a, 82 b can bepositioned generally along the same horizontal plane (e.g., relative tothe ground). The sensor assembly can issue an appropriate signal to thecontroller, which can trigger brighter light when the user is within afirst sensing region, directly in front of the sensor assembly 80. Thesensor assembly 80 can trigger dimmer light when the user is within asecond sensing region, in the periphery of the mirror assembly 2.

The sensor assembly 80 can include two or more light emitting portions82 a, 82 b that do not create overlapping detection cones within thenominal range of the sensors 80. A first cone of light defines a firstsensing region and a second cone of light defines a second sensingregion. If a user is detected in the first sensing region alone or thesecond sensing region alone, then the sensor assembly 80 signals thecontroller, which activates a first level of light from the lightsources 60. In certain variants, if a user is concurrently detected inthe first and second sensing regions, then the sensor assembly 80signals the controller to activate a second level of light from thelight sources 60. In some embodiments, the first level of light isbrighter than the second level of light. In other embodiments, thesecond level of light is brighter than the first level of light.

Activation of the light sources 60 or adjusting the amount of lightemitted from the light sources 60 can be based on factors other than thepresence of a user within a sensing region. For example, the amount oflight emitted from the light sources 60 can adjust based on motionwithin the detection zone and nominal range of the sensor 80. Certainimplementations are configured such that, if a user moves his/her handin an preset direction (e.g., up, down, left, right, diagonally, etc.),then the controller changes an aspect of the light emitted from thelight source 60 (e.g., color temperature change, color, or lightintensity). If the user moves then moves his/her hand in a in theopposite direction, the opposite light effect will be accomplished.

Once a light source 60 activates, the light source 60 can remainactivated so long as the sensor assembly 80 detects an object in asensing region. Alternatively, the light source 60 remains activated fora pre-determined period of time. For example, activating the lightsource 60 can initialize a timer. If the sensor assembly 80 does notdetect an object before the timer runs out, then the light source 60 isdeactivated. If the sensor assembly 80 detects an object before thetimer runs out, then the controller reinitializes the timer, eitherimmediately or after the time runs out.

In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 80 can detect an object'smovement in a sensing region. In certain implementations, when theobject's movement is sufficient in nature, the mirror assembly willactivate. In some variants, the sufficiency of an object's movement isbased on whether the moving object is of a certain minimum size (e.g.,about that of a human adult or child), whether the movement of theobject is of a certain minimum speed (e.g., an average walking speed, orthe speed of waving hand), and/or whether the movement of the object isof a certain maximum distance from the mirror assembly (e.g., less thanabout 10, 5, 3, 2, or 1 foot).

Once activated, the light source 60 can remain activated for apre-determined period of time. For example, as discussed above,activating the light source 60 can initialize a timer. If the sensorassembly 80 does not detect sufficient movement from the object beforethe timer runs out, then the light source 60 deactivates. However, ifthe sensor assembly 80 detects movement sufficient in nature before thetimer runs out, then the controller reinitializes the timer, keeping themirror assembly in an active state. In some embodiments, the amount ofobject movement required to reinitialize the timer can be the same as orsmaller in kind, speed, or frequency than the amount of movementsufficient to initially activate a mirror assembly that is inactive, orthe proximity distance of the object to the mirror assembly can be thesame as or greater than the proximity distance of the object to themirror assembly sufficient to initially activate the mirror system thatis inactive. For instance, in certain embodiments, a movement that isinsufficient to activate the mirror assembly in the first place can besufficient to keep the mirror assembly active once in the active state.The timing and increased sensitivity features can be used to ensure thatthe mirror assembly does not deactivate prematurely or unexpectedly orat a time when it is still in use.

The one or more sensing regions can be used in any type of configurationthat allows the user to control an aspect of the operation of the mirrorassembly 2. For example, the one or more sensing regions can be used totrigger the mirror assembly 2 to emit different levels of light, operatefor varying durations of time, pivot the mirror, or any otherappropriate parameter.

In several embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 has one or more modes ofoperation, for example, an on mode and an off mode. A controller canactivate different modes based on signals received from differentsensing regions, motions, or any other parameter. Any of the modesdescribed below can be used separately or in combination with eachother.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a task mode. When the task mode isactivated, the mirror assembly 2 can trigger a light source 60 to remainactivated or cause the sensor to enter a hyper mode (e.g., during whichthe sensor is configured to have increased sensitivity to movementwithin a zone, or to have a larger or wider sensitivity zone, or to havesome other increased sensitivity signal detection) for a pre-determinedperiod of time. For example, in some embodiments, the task mode can beespecially useful when the user plans to use the mirror assembly 2 foran extended period of time, especially if the user's body position issubstantially still for an extended period, to avoid intermittent lossof lighting while the user is still looking into the mirror. The taskmode can trigger a light source 60 to remain activated for apredetermined amount of time, even if the user is not detected within asensing region. The pre-determined amount of time can be less than orequal to about: 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or any other suitableperiod of time. If the sensor assembly 80 does not detect a user beforethe timer runs out, then the mirror assembly 2 deactivates task mode. Incertain embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 remains in task mode untilthe user signals a light source 30 to deactivate.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a power saver mode. When the powersaver mode is activated, the light source 60 emits less light than themirror assembly 2 when not in power saver mode. The power saver mode canbe user-activated and can be used when a user plans to use the mirrorfor a relatively long period of time. Alternatively, the mirror assembly2 enters power saver mode automatically as a transition between on modeand off mode. For example, a controller can initialize a timer when alight source 60 activates. If the sensor assembly 80 does not detect auser before the timer runs out, then the controller enters power savermode and initializes a second timer. If the sensor assembly 80 does notdetect a user before the second timer runs out, then the controllerdeactivates the light source 60.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a hyper mode. As described above, insome embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can have two light emittingportions. In certain implementations, the controller only triggers thelight sources 60 to activate when the sensor assembly 80 detects anobject in the region where the two cones of light intersect (e.g., theprimary sensing region). In some embodiments, after the light source 60has been activated, the mirror assembly 2 enters hyper mode. Thecontroller can keep the light sources 60 activated as long as the sensorassembly 2 detects the user in either one or both of the cones of light(the secondary or the primary sensing regions). The secondary sensingregion can be different from the primary sensing region. For example,the secondary sensing region can be larger than the primary sensingregion. In some embodiments, this allows the user to move around andstill keep the light source 60 activated. Hyper mode can also help savepower by preventing unintentional activation when the user is near aperiphery of the mirror assembly 2.

The mirror assembly 2 can also include ambient light sensingcapabilities. For example, when the ambient light is relatively low, thelight emitting from the light source 60 will be brighter than if theambient light is relatively bright. The light receiving portion 83 candetect both ambient light and light emitted from the transmitter 82, orthe mirror assembly 2 can include a second sensor assembly for detectingambient light.

The controller can adjust the amount of signal necessary to trigger alight source 60 based on the amount of detected ambient light. Forexample, the amount of detected light required to activate the lightsources 60 can be proportional to the ambient light. Such aconfiguration can allow the light source 60 to be activated even whenthe level of ambient light is modest (e.g., in dimmed bathroomlighting). When the ambient light is less than or equal to a firstlevel, the controller activates light source 60 when a first level ofthe reflected signal is detected. When the ambient light is greater thanthe first level, the controller activates light source 60 when a secondlevel (e.g., greater than the first level) of the reflected signal isdetected.

The controller can also adjust the amount of light emitted by the lightsources 60 based on the ambient light. Such a configuration can, forexample, avoid emitting a starting burst of very bright light that wouldbe uncomfortable to a user's eyes, especially when the user's eyes werepreviously adjusted to a lower light level, such as when the surroundingenvironment is dim. For example, the amount of light emitted by thelight sources 60 can be proportional to the amount of ambient detectedlight.

The controller can also gradually increase the level of emitted lightfrom the light sources 60 when the light sources 60 are activated and/orgradually decrease the amount of light emitted from the light sources 60when the light sources 60 are deactivated. Such a configuration caninhibit discomfort to a user's eyes when the light sources 60 turn on.

The mirror assembly 2 can also include a calibration mode. For example,the calibration mode can calibrate the different sensing regions withdifferent output characteristics as desired by the user. An algorithmcan be configured to utilize multiple sensing regions to performdifferent functions. For example, a user can configure a first sensingregion to correspond with a first level of light (e.g., lower intensitylight) and configure a second sensing region to correspond with a secondlevel of light (e.g., higher intensity light). In another example, theuser can adjust the size (e.g., width or height) of the sensing region.The user can designate a first sensing region to correspond with a firstlevel of light and designate a second sensing region to correspond witha second level of light. This calibration mode can be triggered by auser indicator, such as pressing a button, activating a sensor, or anyother appropriate mechanism.

In some embodiments, an ideal sensing region is designed so that thecenter of a user's face is generally positioned at about the center ofthe mirror portion, at a suitable perpendicular distance away from themirror to permit the user to generally closely fit the user's facewithin the outer periphery of the mirror. A proximity sensor, generallypositioned at a bottom region of the mirror, can be tilted upwardly atan angle above horizontal (e.g., at least about 10 degrees upward, suchas about 15 degrees upward), and an algorithm can trigger a power changeto the mirror when a user's face (or any other object) is detectedwithin a predetermined range of distances in a perpendicular forwarddirection from the front face of the mirror. For example, in someembodiments, the first region can be within a range of at least about 10inches and/or less than or equal to about 12 inches (e.g., about 11inches) from the front face of the mirror, and the second region can bein a range of at least about 7 inches and/or less than or equal to about9 inches (e.g., about 8 inches) from the front face of the mirror.

An algorithm can be configured to send a command to activate the lightsources 60 based on detected signals. The algorithm can also beconfigured to emit different levels of light or vary durations of time.The algorithm can also be configured to send a command to trigger one ormore modes, including any of the modes discussed above. The command canvary based on the signal received. For example, the signal can depend onthe distance between an object and the sensor assembly 80, and/or otherparameters such as duration or path of motion.

The algorithm can initialize a timer when a light source is activated.The timer can run for at least 30 seconds and/or less than or equal to60 seconds, or any other quantity of time. In some embodiments, thetimer can run for less than 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the timercan run for about five seconds. In some embodiments, the light sourcewill immediately turn off when the time runs out. In some embodiments,the light will remain activated so long as the sensor assembly 80detects an object before time runs out. If the sensor assembly 80detects the object, the timer can immediately restart, or restart whenthe time runs out. If the sensor assembly 80 does not detect an objectbefore the time runs out, then the light source will turn off.

The algorithm can incorporate a delay that deactivates the sensor orotherwise prevents a light source 60 from emitting light immediatelyafter the light source 60 deactivates. The delay can be for 1 second, 5seconds, or any other amount of time. The delay helps prevent the userfrom unintentionally triggering the light source 60. During the delayperiod, the light source 60 will not emit light even if an object is ina sensing region during the delay period. If the sensor assembly 80detects an object after the delay period, the light sources 60 can emitlight again.

In some embodiments, the level of light emitted from the light sources60 does not depend on the length of time that the user remains in thesensing region. The level of light emitted from the light sources 60 candiffer depending on the location of the user in a different sensingregion, even if certain other parameters are the same (such as thelength of time that the user is sensed in a region).

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can include an algorithmconfigured to maintain the light source (e.g., LED) brightness at agenerally constant level even as the battery capacity is nearing the endof its life (necessitating a recharge) by adjusting the electricalcharacteristics of the power source supplied to the light sourcedepending on the stage of battery life (e.g., increasing the voltage asthe current decreases or increasing the current as the voltagedecreases).

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can include an algorithmconfigured to detect whether the mirror was inadvertently activated,such as with a false trigger or by the presence of an inanimate object.For example, when the sensor detects an object, the controller caninitialize a timer. If the mirror assembly 2 does not detect anymovement before the timer runs out, then the light sources will turnoff. If the mirror assembly 2 does detect movement, then the timer canre-initialize.

As noted above, the mirror assembly 2 can include a processor, which cancontrol, by various scheme and algorithms, input and outputcharacteristics and functions of the mirror assembly 2. In someembodiments, the processor is responsive to signals received by thesensor assembly 80 and/or the capacitive touch sensor 71. In certainembodiments, the processor enables the sensor assembly 80 or thecapacitive touch sensor 71 to control any one or more of the mirrorassembly 2 algorithms (e.g., algorithms regarding the sensor regions,brightness of the light sources, warmth of the light sources, color ofthe light, CRI, etc.).

The mirror assembly 2 can also include memory, such as firmware, tostore the various user settings, control schemes, and algorithms, aswell certain instructions and/or settings related to variouscharacteristics of the mirror assembly 2. For example, the memory caninclude instructions and/or settings regarding the size of the sensingregions, the sensitivity of the sensors, the level of output light, thelength of various timers, and otherwise.

The mirror assembly 2 can be configured such that a user can modify(e.g., update, program, or otherwise) the memory, such as by connectingthe mirror assembly 2 to a computer (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, etc.)that is equipped with software or an “app” that is configured to enablethe computer and/or the mirror assembly to perform any of the functions,tasks, and/or steps described and/or illustrated herein. For example,the mirror 2 can be communicatively connected with a computer via theport 78 (e.g., using a USB, cable). Data can be transferred between thecomputer and the mirror assembly 2 via the port 78. The mirror assembly2 can alternatively be configured to communicate with a computer ornetwork wirelessly, such as by a cellular, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth® network,infrared, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, a database containing light information forparticular environments can be assembled (e.g., by a user or a thirdparty) and stored in the memory on the mirror assembly 2 and/or on thecomputer. This database can contain, for example, particular lightparameters (e.g., color temperature, light intensity, color hue, etc.)for individual environments (e.g., restaurants, outdoor venues atdifferent times of day or season or with different weather conditions,sporting arenas, opera houses, dance venues, clubs, auditoriums, office,bar, etc.). In certain embodiments, individual outside lightenvironments can include, for example, sunny, overcast, cloudy, rainy,dawn, dusk, twilight, etc. In some embodiments, a user can access thisdatabase in setting the light parameters of the mirror assembly 2 inorder to perform light-matched personal grooming and make-up application(e.g., in preparation for attending a database-listed or similar venue).For instance, in certain variants, the user can download a venue's lightparameters into a device (e.g., a handheld device, a tablet, a computer,a thumb drive, a smartphone) and transfer that information to the mirrorassembly 2 (e.g., by connecting the device to the mirror assembly usinga conduit and the port or wirelessly using Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi). Oncedownloaded (e.g., to a processor or to a memory storage unit), themirror assembly can automatically set the light parameters to match thesuggested settings in the database. In some embodiments, any of theselight settings can be preset and/or included on a memory of the mirrorassembly (e.g., without need for download from a database). In someembodiments, the user can manually select any of these preset settings(e.g., using a touch screen, capacitive touch sensor, buttons, awireless device, etc.) or the user can manually create and save one ormore different settings from the user's own personal adjustments.Personal (e.g., manual) adjustments can be performed by manipulating oneor more of the tint, color, color temperature, brightness, and lightintensity of the light emitted from the light assembly (e.g., using atouch screen, capacitive touch sensor, buttons, a wireless device,etc.).

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can be configured to accessenvironmental information (date, time, season, weather, etc.) from aninformation source (e.g., the internet, a home system, etc.). In someembodiments, this information can be transferred to the mirror assemblywirelessly or through a wired connection. In some embodiments, themirror assembly 2 can include a software or hardware module with analgorithm that selects particular light parameters automatically basedon the environmental information to best match those conditions. In someembodiments, the mirror assembly comprises learning devices and/or canbe integrated to communicate with such devices (e.g., NEST® devices). Insome embodiments, this feature allows the mirror assembly to functionand/or program or adjust itself based on user activity (e.g., whetherthe user is home, in bed, in the bathroom, etc.) and/or based oninformation gathered by an integrated device (e.g., a NEST® device). Insome embodiments, after information is received, the mirror assembly canautomatically select lighting settings based on, for example, outsideweather (e.g., outside lighting conditions), ambient lighting, thepresence of someone in the home (e.g., for power conservation, etc.),time of the day (e.g., to act as an alarm by flashing light, a nightlight, etc.), or otherwise. In some embodiments, any of the abovefeatures can be turned-off or overridden based on input from the user.

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly can act as an alarm or areminder or a conveyor of one or more types of information to the user.For example, in some embodiments, the mirror assembly can indicate it istime for an event or that a particular amount of time has elapsed or aparticular time of day has arrived. In certain implementations, themirror assembly alarm feature operates by providing a cue to the userwhen a time is reached (e.g., time to wake-up, time to shower, time toapply make-up, time to leave for school, work, or some other event). Insome embodiments, the alarm can be set manually by the user and/or canbe set automatically. For instance, the user can set the alarm featureto activate (or deactivate) at a specific recurring time on weekdays andanother different time on weekends. When set to automatically activateand deactivate, the mirror assembly can set alarms based on specificinformation regarding the user, such as specific entries in, forinstance, the user's personal electronic calendar. In certainimplementations, the automatic alarm setting can be based on pastbehaviors of the user, or on information gathered from public sources(e.g., the internet).

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly can automatically adjust thetiming of an alarm when, for example, the timing of an event has beendelayed, or traffic conditions to an event have changed. The mirrorassembly can also display suggest alarm changes prior to making them andcan display the reasoning for a suggested change (on a LCD screen or thelike). Similarly, in some embodiments, the mirror assembly can adjust orsuggest different light settings based on changed weather or other lightcharacteristics.

In some embodiments, the alarm cue provided to the user is visual.Visual cues could include flashing of the light sources, dimming of thelight sources, powering-down of the mirror assembly (and light sources),brightening of the light sources, color changes of the light source(intermittently flashing an alarm color to the user), etc. In somevariants, other or additional features of the mirror assembly providevisual cues. For instance, in some embodiments, an LED (light bulb,colored panel, etc.) is provided on the periphery of one or more of themirror surfaces or the mirror frame. In some embodiments, the alarm LEDilluminates, blinks, or provides other visual cues to the user. Incertain embodiments, the alarm can be hidden behind the a portion of amirrored surface that functions as a two-way mirror such that the visualcue and alarm system only become visible through the mirrored surfacewhen lit. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly comprises a display(as explained elsewhere herein) that includes features that can act asan alarm. For instance, the display can show a timer, a clock, reducingbar scale, a colored indicator (e.g., that changes from green to yellowto red), or the like to indicate it is time for an event (e.g., time togo).

In certain variants, the cue is auditory. Auditory cues include one ormore of a ring, beep, beeping, a buzzer, turning on music or a radiobroadcast, the quieting or silencing of music or a radio broadcast,statements made by a voice (e.g., indicating “good morning,” “time togo,” or “good night”, etc.), etc. In some embodiments, where theauditory cue is a voice, the voice can be recorded (e.g., by the user),prerecorded (e.g., a preset installed during manufacture), acomputerized, or downloaded using an app.

In certain implementations, the cue provided to the user is some othersensorially perceived indicator (e.g., a vibration or other physicalcue). In some embodiments, more than one cue (or cue type) can be usedin combination.

In some embodiments, a device providing the alarm (visual, auditory,physical, or otherwise) is located on the base, shaft, or head of themirror assembly. In some embodiments, for instance, the cue is providedby a speaker that can be located on the back, front, side, top or bottomof the mirror assembly, the shaft, the base, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, the software or hardware module in the mirrorassembly or computer can be configured to enable a user to setparticular default settings of the mirror assembly 2 using a computingdevice (e.g., a computer, smartphone, or the like) to downloadparticular desired settings from the mirror assembly (e.g., a favoredcolor temperature, light intensity, color hue, etc.). In certainvariants, software or hardware module in the mirror assembly or computercan be configured to enable the user can later reset the mirror assemblyto those desired settings by uploading them from the computing device(e.g., wirelessly, wired, or otherwise). In certain embodiments, theuser can set particular mirror assembly settings (e.g., lightingsettings, mirror positions, etc.) and save/store those settings.

In some embodiments, when attending a particular venue, the user can usea sensing device (e.g., on a smart phone, other mobile electroniccommunication device, or another data collecting device) to detectparticular light parameters of the environment. In certainimplementations, the user can then capture light information at thevenue using the sensing device. The user can later use this lightparameter information to calibrate the mirror assembly 2 to match thatparticular environment (or to create a new preset light environment thatcan be stored in a memory of the mirror assembly). In some embodiments,an application (software, etc.) can be loaded onto the sensing device toallow the user to capture light information at a particular venue. Insome variants, for instance, a light environment capture application(available at an app store or online) is downloaded to a mobilecommunication device and when the app is opened, light information canbe captured automatically, by actuation of a button on the device, or bytouching engaging a touchscreen. In some embodiments, the user cangather lighting information, such as by taking a picture or a “selfie”using the sensing device. Then, in certain implementations, the lightinginformation or picture or “selfie” can be analyzed by software or anapplication to capture light environment information therefrom.

In some embodiments, a calibrating implement can be used to detectparticular light parameters of the environment. For instance, in certainimplementations, a calibrating card can be used. In some variants, thecalibrating card contains various shapes or images with various colors,or shades of colors. In some embodiments, when the sensing device viewsthe calibrating card (e.g., when ambient light that is reflected off thecard is sensed by the sensing device), the light parameters of theenvironment are captured.

Other types of interactions (additionally or alternatively) between themirror system, mobile devices, and a user are possible in addition tothose described above. For example, a user may be able to input datainto or control the mirror system through other devices, such askeyboards, mouses, or remote controls. In some embodiments, the mirrorsystem settings can be implemented with one or more computing devices,such as several interconnected devices. Thus, each of the componentsdepicted in the mirror system can include hardware and/or software forperforming various features.

In some embodiments, the mirror system and/or the computing devicecomprises a non-transitory, computer-readable medium storingcomputer-executable instructions for the mirror system or assembly. Incertain embodiments, the computer-readable medium storingcomputer-executable instructions, when executed by one or moreprocessors, cause the one or more processors to perform one or more ofthe following: receive a light environment information from a sensingdevice; compare the light environment received by the sensing device tolight settings on a mirror assembly; indicate a deviation from orproximity to the light environment based at least in part on thecomparison of the light environment and the light settings on the mirrorassembly; adjust the light settings of the mirror assembly to match orapproximate the light environment information.

In certain embodiments, the one or more processors are configured tocause a display to display an indication of one or more aspects of thelight environment and/or the light settings. For example, in someembodiments, the display displays the deviation between the lightenvironment and light settings, information about the light environment(when it was captured—date, time, season, temperature, etc.), a prompt(asking whether the user would like to change one or more of the lightsettings to match the light environment information), etc.

In some embodiments, the non-transitory, computer-readable mediumstoring computer-executable instructions is located in a mobile deviceor is located in a medium configured to be downloaded onto a mobiledevice (such as over the internet). In some embodiments, thenon-transitory, computer-readable medium storing computer-executableinstructions is located on the mirror assembly.

As described elsewhere herein, in some embodiments, the mirror assemblyand its components are actuated by or include one or more computingdevices. For example, in some embodiments, a computing device (either aspart of or remote from the mirror system) that has components includinga central processing unit (CPU), input/output (I/O) components, storage,and/or memory may be used to execute any, some, or all of the processesof the mirror system. The I/O components can include a display (e.g., atouch screen), a network connection to the network, a computer-readablemedia drive and other I/O devices (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, speakers,a touch screen, etc.). Software and other modules may reside and executeon servers, workstations, personal computers, computerized tablets,PDAs, and other computing devices suitable for the purposes describedherein. Software and other modules may be accessible via local memory,via a network, via a browser, or via other means suitable for thepurposes described herein. Data structures described herein may comprisecomputer files, variables, programming arrays, programming structures,or any electronic information storage schemes or methods, or anycombinations thereof, suitable for the purposes described herein. Userinterface elements described herein may comprise elements from graphicaluser interfaces, interactive voice response, command line interfaces,and other suitable interfaces. In some embodiments, the mirror systemmay be configured differently than described above.

One or more of the settings of the mirror assembly or other informationas described elsewhere herein can be stored as one or more executableprogram modules in the memory of the computing device and/or on othertypes of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, and the mirrorsystem can interact with computing assets over a network or othercommunication link. In some embodiments, the mirror system may haveadditional components or fewer components than described above.

In certain implementations, each of the processes, methods andalgorithms described anywhere in this specification may be embodied in,and fully or partially automated by, code modules executed by one ormore computers, computer processors, or machines configured to executecomputer instructions. The code modules may be stored on any type ofnon-transitory computer-readable storage medium or tangible computerstorage device, such as hard drives, solid state memory, optical discand/or the like. The processes and algorithms may be implementedpartially or wholly in application-specific circuitry. The results ofthe disclosed processes and process steps may be stored, persistently orotherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage such as, e.g.,volatile or non-volatile storage.

Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or functions of anyof the processes or algorithms described herein can be performed in adifferent sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g.,not all described operations or events are necessary for the practice ofthe algorithm). Moreover, in certain embodiments, operations or eventscan be performed concurrently, e.g., through multi-threaded processing,interrupt processing, or multiple processors or processor cores or onother parallel architectures, rather than sequentially.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, routines, andalgorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosedherein can be implemented as electronic hardware, or as a combination ofelectronic hardware and executable software. To clearly illustrate thisinterchangeability, various illustrative components, blocks, modules,and steps have been described above generally in terms of theirfunctionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, oras software that runs on hardware, depends upon the particularapplication and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Thedescribed functionality can be implemented in varying ways for eachparticular application, but such implementation decisions should not beinterpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosure.

Moreover, the various illustrative logical blocks and modules describedin connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implementedor performed by a machine, such as a processor device, a digital signalprocessor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), afield programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device,discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or anycombination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein.A processor device can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, theprocessor device can be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine,combinations of the same, or the like. A processor device can includeelectrical circuitry configured to process computer-executableinstructions. In another embodiment, a processor device includes an FPGAor other programmable device that performs logic operations withoutprocessing computer-executable instructions. A processor device can alsobe implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., acombination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration. Although described hereinprimarily with respect to digital technology, a processor device mayalso include primarily analog components. For example, some or all ofthe signal processing algorithms described herein may be implemented inanalog circuitry or mixed analog and digital circuitry. A computingenvironment can include any type of computer system, including, but notlimited to, a computer system based on a microprocessor, a mainframecomputer, a digital signal processor, a portable computing device, adevice controller, or a computational engine within an appliance, toname a few.

The elements of a method, process, routine, or algorithm described inconnection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodieddirectly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processordevice, or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside inRAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory,registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of anon-transitory computer-readable storage medium. An exemplary storagemedium can be coupled to the processor device such that the processordevice can read information from, and write information to, the storagemedium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to theprocessor device. The processor device and the storage medium can residein an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a user terminal. In the alternative,the processor device and the storage medium can reside as discretecomponents in a user terminal.

When the mirror assembly 2 is in electronic communication with thecomputer, a software or hardware module (e.g., an “app”) can beconfigured to display a control panel on the computer and/or to performany or all of the tasks, steps or functions that are illustrated and/ordescribed herein. The control panel may allow the user adjust variousinput and output characteristics for the mirror assembly 2. For example,a user can use the control panel to adjust the output of the emittingportions and/or the sensitivity of the transmitter. The user can alsoconfigure the light levels associated with the first and second sensingregions. In another example, the user can adjust the size (e.g., depth,width, and/or height) of one or more of the sensing regions. In someimplementations, the user can use the control panel to modify theoperation and output (e.g., intensity and/or color of the light) of thelight source 60 based on certain conditions, such as the time of day,level of ambient light, amount of battery power remaining, andotherwise. In certain variants, the ability to modify the operationalparameters of the mirror assembly 2 with the control panel can reduce orobviate the need for one or more adjustment devices (e.g., buttons,knobs, switches, or the like) on the mirror assembly 2, therebyproviding a generally uniform exterior surface of the mirror assembly 2(which can facilitate cleaning) and reducing the chance of unintentionaladjustment of the operational parameters (such as when transporting themirror assembly 2).

In various embodiments, instead of or in addition to the control panel(and/or the capacitive touch sensor described elsewhere herein), one ormore physical dials (or knobs, switches, slide keys, buttons, etc.) canbe provided on the mirror assembly to perform or actuate any functiondescribed and/or illustrated in this specification. These physicalstructures, like the control panel (or capacitive touch sensor), can beused to change any of the various settings of the mirror assemblydescribed herein (e.g., the quality of the light emitted, volume ofsounds emitted, timing of alarms, brightness of displays, etc.).

In certain implementations, instead of or in addition to the othercontrol mechanisms described herein, a display (e.g., a virtual display,touchscreen, LCD, OLED, LED, or the like) can be provided on the mirrorassembly. In some embodiments, the display is hidden from sight (e.g.,on the back of the mirror). In some variants, the display is behind(and/or is within) one or more portions of a mirrored surface of themirrored assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the display is in aposition that is behind a two-way mirror portion of a surface of themirror assembly. Upon illumination, the display becomes visible to theuser. In some variants, when inactive, the display is no longer visibleand appears to be just another portion of the mirror. In certainimplementations, the display is activated by an input from the user(e.g., by touching a portion of the mirror or the display, by stating avoice command, by making a movement that the mirror is programmed torecognize, or by any of the other activation methods described elsewhereherein).

In some embodiments, the display can be configured to perform any or allof the tasks, steps or functions that are illustrated and/or describedherein. For example, in certain implementations, the display is inelectronic communication with a capacitive touch sensor (e.g., a touchscreen). When active, the display can indicate some level of a lightingvariable (e.g., brightness, color temperature, etc.). The capacitivetouch sensor can then receive an input from the user to change thatvariable through a predetermined slide, tap, or rotation of the finger.For example, in some embodiments, the display shows one or more virtualdials, knobs, or switches that can be used to change qualities of thelight emitted from the light columns (e.g., the brightness, color, ortemperature of the light).

In some variants, the display can also (or alternatively) be used toprovide information to the user. For example, in some embodiments, thedisplay can act as a clock, an advertisement block, a text message panel(displaying text messages received by a user's smart phone), an emailpanel (displaying email messages received by a user's email address), orthe like. In some implementations, the display receives information froman information source (e.g., the internet, a home computer, etc.) and,based on a user's past behavior (e.g., purchases, websites visited,etc.), transmits related information to the user. As an illustration,based on past make-up purchases, the display may provide informationabout similar make-up, sales, promotions, etc. Based on past venues thatthe user has attended, the mirror may suggest other similar events. Thedisplay may also provide information about events that are upcoming(e.g., alarms) with updates as to traffic conditions or changed meetingtimes.

In certain variations, the mirror assembly may comprise facialrecognition features. In some instances, several different subjects maymake use of the same mirror assembly. Facial recognition allows themirror assembly to recognize a particular user and to select certainbaseline parameters based on that user. For instance, if “User 1” worksunder fluorescent lights on weekdays, the mirror assembly could load acorresponding light profile on weekday mornings when that “User 1” isrecognized. If “User 2” works primarily in environments lit byincandescent bulbs on weekends, when that user is recognized, thoselight parameters could be selected. In some embodiments, a specificindividual's email, texts, or suggested promotions are displayed basedon that individual's proximity to the mirror.

In certain implementations, the facial recognition feature allows thedisplay to show tailored/targeted promotions (e.g., for make-up etc.) tospecific users. For illustration, in some embodiments, the mirror mayassess the complexion, skin tone, or hair color of the user. In somevariants, the display can then suggest products for the user topurchase. In some embodiments, when a product or promotion is displayed,the user can purchase or bookmark an item by touching the capacitivetouch sensor in a specific area (e.g., a “purchase” or “bookmark”button).

In some implementations, when the mirror assembly 2 is in communicationwith a computer, data can be transferred from the mirror assembly 2 tothe computer. For example, the mirror assembly 2 can transfer data, suchas power consumption, estimated remaining battery power, the number ofactivations and/or deactivations of the light source 60, the length ofuse (e.g., of individual instances and/or in total) of the light source60, and otherwise. Software can be used to analyze the transferred data,such as to calculate averages, review usage statistics (e.g., duringspecific periods), recognize and/or draw attention to unusual activity,and display usage statistics on a graph. Transferring usage statisticsfrom the mirror assembly 2 to the computer allows the user to monitorusage and enables the user to calibrate different characteristics of themirror assembly 2 (e.g., based on previous usage and parameters).Transferring data from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer can alsoreduce or avoid the need for one or more adjustment or display deviceson the mirror assembly itself.

When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with the computer, themirror the computer can also transfer data to the mirror assembly 2.Furthermore, when the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with thecomputer, electrical potential can be provided to the battery 74 before,during, or after such two-way data transfer.

On the rear side of the mirror assembly 2, the housing 10 can include acentral support backing 41 b, which can be configured to at leastpartially enclose one or more components of the mirror assembly 2. Asshown in FIGS. 7-9, and 21, the central support backing 41 b can includean aperture 36 through which the pivot portion 32 can extend to engagewith the head portion 40. The central support backing 41 b can alsoinclude one or more vents 75 to reduce further the temperature. Incertain variants, the mirror assembly 2 can include a gasket positionedbetween the head portion and support backing. As previously noted, thepivot portion 32 can connect the head portion 40 and the shaft portion30.

In certain embodiments, the pivot portion 32 allows the mirror 50 to bepivoted in one or more directions (e.g., up, down, right, left,clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.). The pivot portion 32 can include oneor more of a ball joint, one or more hinges, or otherwise. As shown inFIG. 21-23, the pivot portion 32 may comprise a vertical swivel joint 34(allowing up and down movement) and a lateral swivel joint 33 (allowingright to left movement). In some embodiments, the vertical swivel joint34 is spring-loaded with spring 38. The spring 38 (or another similarfeature that causes directional resistance) can imbue head portion witha weighted feel so that user can tilt the mirror back easily with littleresistance (from the vertical position to a position y away fromvertical, shown in FIG. 22) and with more resistance when returning thehead 40 to the vertical position.

As stated above, the various features of the pivot portion 32 give thehead portion 40 multi-directional movement capabilities. For instance,the head portion 40 can be adjustable (e.g., slidably movable and/orrotatable) along an axis generally parallel to the surface of the mirror50 and to the ground and/or along an axis generally parallel to thesurface of the mirror 50 and perpendicular to the ground. Additionally,the shaft portion 30 can be adjustable (e.g., slidably movable and/orrotatable) along an axis generally parallel to the surface of the mirror50 and perpendicular to the ground. The housing portion 10 can alsoinclude additional pivot portions, such as along the shaft portion 20.

To adjust the height of the mirror assembly 2, the shaft portion 30 canbe configured to telescope and/or translate generally perpendicular tothe ground when the mirror assembly 2 is positioned on the base 20. Insome embodiments, the height of the shaft portion 30 can be adjusted toa length in inches (measured from the base 20 to the head portion 40) ofless than or equal to about 4, about 6, about 8, about 10, about 15,about 20, about 25, about 50, ranges falling between the aforementionedvalues, values in between the aforementioned values, or otherwise. Insome embodiments, the height of the shaft portion 30 can be adjustedwithin about a four inch range. In some embodiments, the height of theshaft portion 30 can be adjusted within about a three inch range.

The shaft portion 30 can comprise plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, orother suitable materials. In some embodiments, the shaft portion 30 cancomprise compressible materials, such as rubber, nylon, and plastics, onat least a portion of its outer surface.

A portion of the head portion 40 can be cantilevered outward from thelongitudinal axis of the shaft portion 30. Such a configuration canimpart a moment of force on the mirror assembly 2, which, ifuncompensated for, could lead to tipping. The base portion 20 can alsobe configured to counteract such a moment. For example, the base portion20 can include a weight that is sufficient to reduce substantially thelikelihood of tipping of the mirror assembly 2.

The base 20 and/or other portions of the mirror assembly 2 can begenerally balanced in mass distribution such that the center of mass ofthe mirror assembly 2 is generally positioned near the shaft 30 and/ornear the base 20. The base portion 20 can weigh at least about 2 lbs., 4lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., values in between, or otherwise. The baseportion 20 can also include one or more supporting feet or be configuredto be semi-permanently mountable (e.g., to be mounted to a countertopwith one or more fasteners).

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the base portion 20 can have agenerally curved outer surface. For example, a horizontal cross-sectionof the base at a plurality of points along its height can be generallycircular or generally elliptical. In the illustrated embodiment, thebase portion 20 is generally conical, such as generally frusto-conical.The outer surface of the base can be generally smooth, generally taperedand/or generally sloping, as illustrated, and/or present a virtuallyentirely continuous surface generally circumscribing the periphery ofthe base 20. The horizontal cross-sectional area or diameter of the topof the base 20 generally can be about the same as the horizontalcross-sectional are or diameter of the bottom of the shaft portion 30.The horizontal cross-sectional area of the base 20 can generallycontinuously increase from the top region of the base 20 to the bottomregion of the base 20. For example, a horizontal cross-sectional area ordiameter at the bottom region of the base 20 can be substantially largerthan a horizontal cross-sectional area or diameter at the top region ofthe base 20 (e.g., at least about two or at least about three timeslarger), which is an example of a base 20 that can help resist tippingof the mirror. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the distance alongthe shaft portion 30 from the bottom of the mirror portion to the top ofthe base portion can be generally about the same as the height of thebase portion 20. In some embodiments, the base has a footpad 22 thathelps prevent tipping of the mirror assembly 2. In some embodiments, thefootpad 22 gives the base 20 additional traction. In some embodiments,the footpad is rubber, silicone, or any other slightly tacky material.

The mirror assembly can be powered using an electrical conduit (e.g., acord) and/or it can be powered using an internal power source (e.g., inembodiments where the mirror assembly is cordless or wireless). Asdiscussed in further detail below, the head portion 40 (or some otherportion of the mirror assembly) can include a power source 74 (e.g., abattery, a rechargeable battery, or a cord to be plugged into anelectrical outlet). In some embodiments, a cord is plugged directly intoan external energy source and into the mirror assembly to charge aninternal power source of the mirror assembly (e.g., rechargeablebatteries). In certain implementations, the external energy source is astandard wall outlet, a computer, or a portable battery. In certainvariants, the electrical conduit engages with the external energy sourceor the mirror assembly via a multi-prong electrical plug, a USB port, acell phone adaptor, or some other port configured to receive charge andto deliver it to a device. In some embodiments, the cord and/or theexternal energy source have guiding features (e.g., magnets) that guidethe cord and external energy source into engagement. In someembodiments, the electrical conduit is removable or retractable (e.g.,it retracts into the mirror assembly, out of sight). In someembodiments, the cord and/or the mirror assembly source have guidingfeatures (e.g., magnets) that guide the cord and mirror assembly intoengagement. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly can be recharged byplacing the mirror assembly onto or in contact with a charging pad ormat. In some embodiments, the pad or mat may itself bewireless/cordless.

In some variants, the cordless mirror assembly is powered byrechargeable batteries (e.g., lithium ion, nickel cadmium, nickel, metalhydride, or lithium ion polymer). In some implementations, the batteriesof the mirror assembly can be removed from the mirror assembly andreplaced (or recharged at a charging station).

In some embodiments, the weight and positioning of the battery 74 canincrease the stability of the mirror assembly 2 by acting as a counterweight to the mirror 50. In some embodiments, the battery can deliverpower to the light sources for at least about ten minutes per day forabout thirty days. The battery 74 can be recharged via a port 78 (e.g.,a universal serial bus (USB) port or otherwise), as shown in FIG. 8. Theport 78 can be configured to receive permanently or removably aconnector coupled with a wire or cable (not shown). The port 78 can alsobe configured to allow electrical potential to pass between thebatteries 74 with a power source via the connector. The port 78 may beused to program or calibrate different operations of the mirrorillumination or object sensing when connect to a computer. Othercharging methods can be used, such as via conventional electric adapterto be plugged in to an electric outlet.

The mirror assembly 2 can include an indicator device configured toissue a visual, audible, or other type of indication to a user of themirror assembly 2 regarding a characteristic of the mirror assembly 2,the user, and/or the relationship between the mirror assembly 2 and theuser. For example, the indicator can indicate on/off status, batterylevels, imminent deactivation, and/or certain mode of operation. Theindicator can be used for other purposes as well.

In certain embodiments, the color of the indicator light can varydepending on the indication. For example, the indicator can emit a greenlight when the mirror assembly is turned on and/or a red light when thebattery is running low. The indicator can comprise a light bar thatindicates the total battery life (decreasing length with decreasingbattery life). In some embodiments, the indicator can ring-shaped andpositioned around a portion of the shaft portion 30. The indicator cantake on any other shape and be positioned around the head portion 40(e.g., behind a portion of a 2-way mirrored area), along the baseportion 20, or on any other location on the mirror assembly 2.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 24A-B, a supplemental (e.g.,additional) mirror can be provided. This additional mirror 100 can beused to supplement the image provided on the mirrors 52, 54, 56 byproviding additional views of the user. For instance, in someembodiments, where the mirrored surfaces 52, 54, 56 of the mirrorassembly 2 are flat, the additional mirror 100 can be parabolic (e.g.,concave) and/or can provide magnified views of the user. In certainimplementations, the parabolic shape of the additional mirror can allowthe user to increase or decrease magnification by moving closer orfarther from the additional mirror 100. The radius of curvature andfocal length of the additional mirror can vary as described elsewhereherein. In some embodiments, the additional mirror is convex andprovides a smaller image of the user. This smaller image can be used tomore easily allow the user look at the back of his or her head or toprovide additional viewing angles of the user.

In some embodiments, a plurality of additional mirrors are provided (1,2, 3, 4, or more) where each additional mirror provides a different typeof image to the user (higher or lower magnification, tinted mirrors,colored mirrors, for example). In some embodiments, a single additionalmirror itself can provide multiple different images. For instance, anadditional mirror can have one face on a side and another different faceon the opposite side. One face of the additional mirror could be concaveproviding a first magnification (e.g., 10×) and the other side of themirror (the back surface) could be concave providing a secondmagnification (e.g., 2×) that is different or less than or greater thanthe first magnification. Any other first and second different opticalfeatures can be provided by the supplemental mirror, on its respectiveopposing sides, or as compared to one or more of the mirrored surfacesof the mirror system. For example, either or both of the surfaces of thesupplemental mirror, as compared to each other or as compared to one ormore mirrored surfaces of the mirror system, can provide differentreflectivity levels or different light filtering or differentmagnification levels. In this configuration, by simply flipping theadditional mirror from one side to the other, magnification or anotherfeature of the mirror can be changed.

As shown in FIGS. 24A-B, in certain implementations, the additionalmirror 100 can be affixed (stuck, adhered, attached, etc.) to a mirroredsurface of the mirror assembly 2. In some implementations, the mirror isaffixed using a coupling implement, such as one selected from one ormore of a magnet, suction cup, glue or silicon adhesive, a stickypad(s), or the like (not pictured). In some embodiments, the additionalmirror 100 can be removed and reaffixed to the mirror assembly 2 as manytimes as desired by the user and in any position on the mirror assembly(e.g., on any portion of a mirrored surface 52, 54, 56).

In some variants, the additional mirror 100 can be removed from themirror assembly 2 to provide an unobstructed view of the image providedby the mirror assembly. In certain implementations, as shown in FIGS.24C-D, when the additional mirror is not in use, it can be stored out ofview (e.g., on the back of the mirror assembly 2). As shown in FIGS. 24C-D, the additional mirror can be stored on the back of the mirrorassembly 2 using clamps 102. In other variants, the additional mirrorcan be stored by, for example, magnetically attaching it to a portion ofthe mirror assembly (e.g., the back/non-mirrored surface of the mirrorassembly), by sliding it into a slot provided on the back or side of themirror assembly (e.g., a pocket, port, or drawer provided on the mirrorassembly), by hanging it from the mirror assembly (e.g., usingretractable or static hooks or clips that project from a portion of theadditional mirror or from the mirror assembly), or by otherwiseattaching the additional mirror to the mirror assembly (e.g., withadhesives, etc.). Just as the additional mirror can be affixed anywhereto the front of the mirror (e.g.., an upper, lower, or central portionnear the top, side, middle of the mirror), in some embodiments, theaddition mirror can be stored anywhere on the back of the mirror (e.g.,an upper, lower, or central portion near the top, side, middle of theback of the mirror).

In some variants, as shown in FIGS. 24A-D, the additional mirror 100 iscircular. In other embodiments, the additional mirror is another shape(square, rectangular, oval, etc.). In certain implementations, theadditional mirror 100 is at least about 2, 3, 4, or 5 inches in diameter(or width or height). In some embodiments, the additional mirror issized to fit easily in a user's palm so that it can be handheld andmanipulated easily when not attached to the mirror assembly.

Although the vanity mirror has been disclosed in the context of certainembodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that the present disclosure extends beyond the specificallydisclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses ofthe subject matter and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Inaddition, while several variations of the vanity mirror have beendescribed in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope ofthe present disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill inthe art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that variouscombinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects ofthe embodiments can be made and still fall within the scope of thepresent disclosure. It should be understood that various features andaspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substitutedfor one another in order to form varying modes of the vanity mirror.Thus, it is intended that the scope of the subject matter hereindisclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodimentsdescribed above.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Thelight scattering elements in the region generally adjacent the lightsource can be smaller compared to the light scattering elements in theregion spaced from, or generally opposite from, or generally furthestfrom, the light source. The light source can be positioned near an upperportion of the mirror. The light pipe can be disposed alongsubstantially all of the periphery of the mirror. The light source canemit light in a direction generally orthogonal to a standard viewingdirection of the mirror. The light source can emit light into the firstend, and another light source can emit light into the second end. Insome embodiments, the light scattering elements can be generallyuniformly distributed along at least a portion of the light pipe.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a mirror assemblyincluding a mirror coupled with a housing portion and one or more lightsources disposed at a periphery of the mirror. The one or more lightsources can be configured to emit light in a direction generallyorthogonal to a primary viewing direction of the mirror. The light pipecan have a length and can be disposed along substantially all of theperiphery of the mirror. The light pipe can be configured to receivelight from the one or more light sources and distribute the lightgenerally consistently along the length, thereby providing a generallyconstant level of illumination to the periphery of the mirror.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Theone or more light sources can include a first light source configured toproject light in a first direction around the periphery of the mirrorand a second light source configured to project light in a seconddirection around the periphery of the mirror. The one or more lightsources can be two light sources. Each of the light sources can use lessthan or equal to about three watts of power. The one or more lightsources can have a color rendering index of at least about 90. The oneor more light sources can include light emitting diodes. The light pipecan be configured to transmit at least about 95% of the light emittedfrom the one or more light sources.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward methods ofmanufacturing a mirror assembly, such as any of the mirror assembliesdisclosed in this specification. The methods can include coupling amirror and a housing portion. The method can include disposing a lightsource at a periphery of the mirror. The method can include positioninga light pipe around at least a portion of the periphery of the mirror.The method can include disposing a plurality of light scatteringelements along the length of a light pipe. In certain embodiments, theplurality of light scattering elements can have a pattern density. Thelight scattering elements can be configured to encourage a portion ofthe light impacting the light scattering elements to be emitted out ofthe light pipe. The pattern density can be less dense in a regiongenerally adjacent the light source, and the pattern density can be moredense in a region generally opposite from, spaced from, or furthestfrom, the light source along the periphery of the mirror, therebyfacilitating a substantially constant amount of light emitted along thelength of the light pipe. In certain embodiments, the method can includepositioning the light source near an upper portion of the mirror. Incertain embodiments, the method can include positioning the light sourceto emit light in a direction generally orthogonal to a main viewingdirection of the mirror. In certain embodiments, the method can includepositioning the light source to emit light into a first end of the lightpipe and positioning another light source to emit light into a secondend of the light pipe. In certain embodiments, the method can includedisposing the light scattering elements in a generally uniform patternalong at least a portion of the light pipe.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a mirror assemblyhaving a housing portion, a mirror, one or more light sources, aproximity sensor, and an electronic processor. The mirror can be coupledwith the housing portion. The one or more light sources can be disposedat a periphery of the mirror. The proximity sensor can be configured todetect an object within a sensing region. The proximity sensor can beconfigured to generate a signal indicative of a distance between theobject and the proximity sensor. The electronic processor can beconfigured to generate an electronic signal to the one or more lightsources for emitting a level of light that varies depending on thedistance between the object and the sensor.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Forexample, the proximity sensor can be positioned generally near a topregion of the mirror. The electronic processor can be configured togenerate an electronic signal to the one or more light sources todeactivate if the proximity sensor does not detect the presence and/ormovement of the object for a predetermined period of time. The proximitysensor can be configured to have increased sensitivity after theproximity sensor detects the object (e.g., by increasing the triggerzone distance, by increasing the sensitivity to movement within atrigger zone, and/or by increasing the time period until deactivation).The mirror assembly can include an ambient light sensor configured todetect a level of ambient light. In some embodiments, the sensing regioncan extend from about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative toan axis extending from the proximity sensor. The proximity sensor can bemounted at an angle relative to a viewing surface of the mirror. Themirror assembly can include a lens cover positioned near the proximitysensor. In certain embodiments, a front surface of the lens cover can bepositioned at an angle relative to the proximity sensor. The mirrorassembly can include a light pipe having a length and being disposedalong substantially all of the periphery of the mirror. The light pipecan be configured to receive light from the one or more light sourcesand distribute the light generally consistently along the length,thereby providing a substantially constant level of illumination to theperiphery of the mirror.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a variety ofdifferent methods of manufacturing a mirror assembly. The methods caninclude coupling a mirror with a housing portion. The methods caninclude disposing one or more light sources at a periphery of themirror. The methods can include configuring a proximity sensor togenerate a signal indicative of a distance between an object and theproximity sensor. The methods can include configuring an electronicprocessor to generate an electronic signal to the one or more lightsources for emitting a level of light that varies depending on thedistance between the object and the sensor.

Any methods of manufacturing the mirror assembly can include a varietyof different steps. For example, some methods can include positioningthe proximity sensor generally near a top region of the mirror. Themethods can include configuring the electronic processor to generate anelectronic signal to the one or more light sources to deactivate if theproximity sensor does not detect the object for a period of time. Themethods can include configuring the proximity sensor to have increasedsensitivity after the proximity sensor detects the object. The methodscan include configuring an ambient light sensor to detect a level ofambient light. The methods can include configuring the proximity sensorto detect an object within a sensing region extending from about 0degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axis extending fromthe proximity sensor. The methods can include mounting the proximitysensor at an angle relative to a viewing surface of the mirror. Themethods can include positioning a lens cover near the proximity sensor.In certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a frontsurface of the lens cover at an angle relative to the proximity sensor.The methods can include disposing a light pipe along substantially allof the periphery of the mirror. The light pipe can be configured toreceive light from the one or more light sources and distribute thelight generally consistently along the length, thereby providing asubstantially constant level of illumination to the periphery of themirror.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand features of the inventions have been described herein. It is to beunderstood that not necessarily any or all such advantages are achievedin accordance with any particular embodiment of the inventions disclosedherein. No aspects of this disclosure are essential or indispensable. Inmany embodiments, the mirror system may be configured differently thanillustrated in the figures or description herein. For example, variousfunctionalities provided by the illustrated modules can be combined,rearranged, added, or deleted. In some embodiments, additional ordifferent processors or modules may perform some or all of thefunctionalities described with reference to the example embodimentdescribed and illustrated in the figures. Many implementation variationsare possible.

1.-20. (canceled)
 21. A mirror system comprising: a mirror assemblycomprising: a mirror; a light source; and a processor configured toadjust relative light intensity of the light source; a software moduleor app configured to be installed on an electronic device, separate fromthe mirror assembly, comprising non-transitory, computer-readable mediastoring computer-executable instructions, that, when executed by thesoftware module or app, cause the software module or app to: receivelighting information associated with a measured lighting environmentprovided from a sensing device; and communicate instructions to themirror assembly to adjust the light intensity of the light source toapproximate the measured lighting environment; and an informationdisplay configured to change based upon input from a user through asensor.
 22. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the light sourcecomprises at least a first light emitting diode and a second lightemitting diode.
 23. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the sensingdevice is configured to provide lighting information captured by theuser.
 24. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the lightinginformation is gathered from a picture.
 25. The mirror system of claim21, wherein the software module or app is configured to receive thelighting information from the sensing device by way of the electronicdevice.
 26. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the electronic deviceis a computer.
 27. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the electronicdevice is a mobile device.
 28. The mirror system of claim 21, whereinthe mirror system is integrated with a learning device comprising thesensing device.
 29. A combination including the mirror system of claim21 and the electronic device.
 30. The mirror system of claim 21, whereinthe sensor is a capacitive touch sensor and the information display isconfigured to be activated by a user movement that the mirror assemblyis programmed to recognize.
 31. The mirror system of claim 21, whereinthe information display is configured to display a clock.
 32. The mirrorsystem of claim 21, wherein the information display is configured todisplay an upcoming event.
 33. The mirror system of claim 21, whereinthe information display is configured to display a text message panel.34. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the information display isconfigured to display an email panel.
 35. The mirror system of claim 21,wherein the information display is configured to display trafficconditions.
 36. The mirror system of claim 21, wherein the mirror systemis configured to receive information about the weather.
 37. The mirrorsystem of claim 21, wherein the information display is positioned behinda portion of a surface of the mirror and becomes visible to the userupon illumination of the information display.
 38. A mirror assemblycomprising: a first mirror; and a second mirror disposed laterallyadjacent to the first mirror and in mechanical communication with thefirst mirror via a hinge, the hinge configured to allow movement of thesecond mirror with respect to the first mirror such that a reflectiveface of the first mirror and a reflective face of the second mirror areconfigured to form a plurality of angles α relative to each another, thehinge comprises a cam configured to reduce the distance between thefirst mirror and the second mirror during opening of the hinge; a lightsource disposed on or in the mirror assembly such that the light sourceis configured to emit light at a user in a manner that causes the lightto be reflected back to the first or second mirror; a controllerconfigured to adjust the light source; and a sensor assembly comprisinga transmitter and a receiver, wherein the sensor is configured to relayinformation to the controller.
 39. The mirror assembly of claim 38,wherein the hinge is recessed from the reflective face of the firstmirror.
 40. The mirror assembly of claim 38, wherein during opening ofthe hinge, the second mirror moves laterally.
 41. The mirror assembly ofclaim 38, further comprising a third mirror laterally adjacent to thefirst mirror and on a side of the first mirror opposite the secondmirror, wherein the third mirror is in communication with the firstmirror via a second hinge, the second hinge configured to allow movementof the third mirror with respect to the first mirror such that thereflective face of the first mirror and a reflective face of the thirdmirror are able to form angles α′ relative to one another.
 42. Themirror system of claim 38, further comprising an information displayconfigured to change based upon input from a user through a sensor. 43.The mirror system of claim 42, wherein the sensor is a capacitive touchsensor and the information display is configured to be activated by auser movement that the mirror assembly is programmed to recognize. 44.The mirror system of claim 42, wherein the information display isconfigured to display a clock.
 45. The mirror system of claim 42,wherein the information display is configured to display an upcomingevent.
 46. The mirror system of claim 42, wherein the informationdisplay is configured to display a text message panel.
 47. The mirrorsystem of claim 42, wherein the information display is configured todisplay an email panel.
 48. The mirror system of claim 42, wherein theinformation display is configured to display traffic conditions.
 49. Themirror system of claim 42, wherein the mirror system is configured toreceive information about the weather.
 50. The mirror system of claim38, wherein the information display is positioned behind a portion ofthe reflective face of the first mirror and becomes visible to the userupon illumination of the information display.